Showing posts with label bookblogger. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bookblogger. Show all posts
A Way Back To Happy by Olivia Spooner
Published by Aria & Ares
Edition Read ~ eBook
ISBN ~ 9781800249462
Price ~ £2.99 (GBP)
Book Description
Sometimes you have to fall apart so that you can start again...
After five years stuck in the wrong marriage, 33-year-old Emma is finally free. Her husband has moved out, her son Freddie is making friends, and her parents are finally trying to stop micro-managing her life.
On a celebratory night out with her three best friends, Emma meets Finn. Young, dimpled and irresistibly Scottish Finn. Between landing her dream job, stolen moments with Finn, and precious time with Freddie, Emma is happier than she has ever been.
Then one accident changes everything and Emma's life is thrown into chaos. With the help of all who love her, can Emma find a way back to happy?
MY REVIEW ~ 5 Stars
I began reading this book on Tuesday 5th October - my 33rd Birthday, and I wil admit that I was elated when I discovered that the lead character in this story, Emma, was also 33 and was facing a bit of a shit storm in her own life. I don't know why but I really find comfort in characters facing a difficult period in their lives especially when their feelings are ones that I can identify with myself. I suppose it's a human thing to want to not be the only person facing a tough time, yet us Brits find it difficult to not only talk about to ourselves let alone to admit to others. This is why books are so wonderful - we can escape into the pages and confess our own secrets and lies to the characters. It bonds us, and thus the story becomes a part of who we are as we personalise it.
So, I met Emma and her four year old adorable son Freddie, and I immediately warmed to her as she faced the difficulty of telling her husband Paul that she was leaving him and whilst she is a mother and I am not yet, it was a situation I could understand and empathise with. I never warmed to Paul, in fact I was in agreement with her friend Lily (Go Team Lily!) where her husband was concerned.
The plot of the story kept me interested, and motivated to keep turning the page to find out how Emma navigate the break up which was a suprise but not in the way you'd expect. I felt myself having a soft spot for Finn who became Emma's guilty pleasure after a one night stand. I think every woman reading this book will think the same thing about Emma in regards to Finn - and that is "Lucky Bugger".
The story is told in weekly increments, both before and after, and I have honestly never read a story set out this way before and that was partly the excitement and enjoyment of reading along with the excellent and original plot. I also loved that it was based down under as opposed to the UK or the US. It's just nice to truly escape into a book. When the girls; Emma, Lily, Trish and Mags went to Bali, I wanted to go with them, and they even got me to get up early and do morning Yoga - although I passed on the hummus and carrot sticks.
It was fascinating following the journey of Emma as she overcame one of the hardest years of her life, right up until the last page the plot had me wondering what was actually going to happen. It might sound cliche, but right now I feel inspired by Emma, with the changes in my own life that's happening, and how daunting it feels, I find myself thinking, If Emma can do what she did, after what happened to her, then I can do this.
I would love to read more by Olivia Spooner, and in fact I quite want a follow up to this one so we finally get to meet the babies! I'd quite like to see the Girls starting some "mums club" and of course more of what Olivia does best - and that is keep me guessing as to what's going to happen next.
You can purchase now in eBook version, and from all good bookshops in paperback from 11th November 2021
*Thank you to Aria Fiction for allowing me to read an advanced reader copy via NetGalley in return for an honest review*
Hello my loves,
How are you doing? Have you read any good books recently? I'm always interested in what my readers are reading so please, at any point feel free to comment on my posts telling me what's currently making you turn pages quickly!
Today I have my very first book review of 2019 and my first review in what feels like ages so please be gentle with me ;) I'm really excited to share this review with you because it's written by one of my favourite authors - I have a lot of favourites because there are so many of you wonderful authors out there that are simply the best at what you do! The book is book 1 of a 4 part installment that will be later published as a complete book in June 2019. It is of course the new Wildflower Park by Bella Osbourne! Bella's books are ones I tend to rave about for-EVER! I still talk about my love of Willow Cottage, and Ottercombe Bay... in fact I might give both of those a re-read and write up another review for you on the complete book! But back to Wildflower Park.
How are you doing? Have you read any good books recently? I'm always interested in what my readers are reading so please, at any point feel free to comment on my posts telling me what's currently making you turn pages quickly!
Today I have my very first book review of 2019 and my first review in what feels like ages so please be gentle with me ;) I'm really excited to share this review with you because it's written by one of my favourite authors - I have a lot of favourites because there are so many of you wonderful authors out there that are simply the best at what you do! The book is book 1 of a 4 part installment that will be later published as a complete book in June 2019. It is of course the new Wildflower Park by Bella Osbourne! Bella's books are ones I tend to rave about for-EVER! I still talk about my love of Willow Cottage, and Ottercombe Bay... in fact I might give both of those a re-read and write up another review for you on the complete book! But back to Wildflower Park.
**Thank you to Avon Books UK for sending me an e-book copy to review via NetGalley**
Escape to Wildflower Park with Part One of a brand new four-part serial from bestselling author Bella Osborne.
Life’s not always a walk in the park…
When Anna is dumped by her fiancé, she moves in to her own place on the edge of the gorgeous Wildflower Park and pledges to stay off men and focus on her career, but a handsome new colleague seems to thwart her attempts at every turn. And when she receives an accidental text from a mystery man, could it be the new start she needs? Or someone she really shouldn't be falling for?
Anna’s neighbour Sophie is a stressed-out mum-of-two with a third on the way. Her husband is a constant frustration, and their children are a regular source of newly-invented swear words and unidentifiable sticky surfaces.
Luckily, Anna and Sophie have each other – and Wildflower Park proves to be a sanctuary as they map out a path to find the happiness they both deserve…
Fantastically funny, this irresistibly heart-warming novel will charm fans of Milly Johnson and Jill Mansell.
What did Dawn think?
One thing I pride myself on is that even though I love a lot of authors and I look forward to their new books coming out, I am always impartial when I read them. I kind of start a book thinking, "I loved your previous work, but I want to see what you've done this time" because like we all do, we all grow as people and develop new skills in our craft and art forms. Bella, let me reassure you firstly that you have once again written an absolute wonderful book! So you can breathe again! ;)
I loved the characters in the sense that they are so realistic, believable and relatable. I do love the lead character; Anna, and I think her ex is an absolute arse of a man but then again, Ex's usually are aren't they? Kind of cliche but they really are an ex for a reason. Anna's friend Sophie is like the one friend you have whom you love to bits but for me she'd do my head in just as much but... BUT...her hormones could be the issue - at least to begin with. Maybe a little. Sometimes. I don't know, she's probably just one of those people that you kind of love to ...be annoyed by - or maybe its just me because I do love her. She's a good one really. Just annoying at times, in my opinion. But I love that Bella has included a realistic and relatable character like her because already in my head Sophie does exist :)
Anna, is trying to get her life back on track and that includes getting a new lodger - the cat from the rescue centre - Maurice. He seems to have his own cattitude just like my fur babies and like Mr R's girls,... well just like any cat really. Maurice belonged to Bert who's now in a retirement home and quite missing his furry friend. Anna vows to visit Bert and keep him updated. Bert is a really lovely character and it's to not fall in love with him.
Sophie is so frustrated and pregnant with her third child. She works with Anna and when a new colleague shows up Sophie's finding herself having inappropriate thoughts about him. Does he sound appealing? Well... maybe but his initial portrayal shows him as a bit of smug showoff and competing against Anna ( I really want Anna to put him in his place) which is the last thing she needs after being dumped by her fiance - like I said before A-R-S-E.
Part 1 is a really quick read and a thoroughly enjoyable start to a new series that I can't wait to discover what happens next - luckily I get to find out and shall report back as soon as I know! Especially with that cliffhanger.... Like OMG what' going on?!
Watch this space.... part 2's review will be here very very soon!
APOFL Rating - 4 stars!
Hey there lovely,
Happy New Year!
It's a new year so that means it's time to set and share my bookish goals with you all. Last year wasn't a good year for this little blog because it got seriously neglected, books and publishers got let down because I simply didn't have the time to read books due to my heavy schedule of completing my degree, my specialist support teacher qualification and the heavy stress I *was* under at work. I say *was* because until I find a new place of employment I doubt that stress is ever going to fully go away unfortunately. Anyway, let's talk about books goals!
Last year I didn't read as many books as I wanted to and actually lowered my goal not once but twice! I feel deeply ashamed and saddened that in the entire of 2018 I managed 10 posts on here. 10!!! Like what kind of joke is that?! I have to say that deeply disappointed me the most. But you guys and gals!! You!! Oh my gosh you are simply the best blog readers in the world because despite only published 10 posts - you kept coming back and you read the posts and you helped this blog grow past 32,000!!! I am eternally grateful to you! So what does 2019 have in store?
Books, Blogs + 2019 Goals!
Happy New Year!
It's a new year so that means it's time to set and share my bookish goals with you all. Last year wasn't a good year for this little blog because it got seriously neglected, books and publishers got let down because I simply didn't have the time to read books due to my heavy schedule of completing my degree, my specialist support teacher qualification and the heavy stress I *was* under at work. I say *was* because until I find a new place of employment I doubt that stress is ever going to fully go away unfortunately. Anyway, let's talk about books goals!
Last year I didn't read as many books as I wanted to and actually lowered my goal not once but twice! I feel deeply ashamed and saddened that in the entire of 2018 I managed 10 posts on here. 10!!! Like what kind of joke is that?! I have to say that deeply disappointed me the most. But you guys and gals!! You!! Oh my gosh you are simply the best blog readers in the world because despite only published 10 posts - you kept coming back and you read the posts and you helped this blog grow past 32,000!!! I am eternally grateful to you! So what does 2019 have in store?
Books, Blogs + 2019 Goals!
- Read 60 books (documented on Goodreads - A Page of Fictional Love, come over and be my friend!)
- Blog at least 1-2 times a week
- Have a minimum of 52 posts in this blog by the end of December 2019
- Write more Bookish Lifestyle posts on here
- Grow the blog to 50,000 (from 32,200 as at 1.1.19)
- Allow more 2 + 3 star reviews on this blog
- Host giveaways bi-monthly
- Do regular facebook audio lives where we hang out and chat about books
- Record Audio reviews of books I've read + post them to my facebook page (A Page of Fictional Love)
- Open the blog to guest bloggers to support the book community - not limited to bloggers but READERS of books from all over!
- Get back into the good books of publishers (seriously I feel so guilty for my lack of reviewing last year!)
- Grow my instagram (A Page of Fictional Love) to 1500+
I do have a few more secret goals that I'm working on behind the scenes but I want them to be a surprise for you so I'm not going to share just yet.
Have you set any book related goals this year? Tell me all about them in the comments below
Talk really soon lovely,
Love Dawn xxx
Love Dawn xxx
I am so late to the party on reading these books I'm sure the party has literally been cleaned up and almost forgotten about - especially in the fast paced world of Book Bloggers and Influencers. But one of the best things about being a part of the book community online is that there is always someone who is willing to join the conversation about a newly discovered book and indulge in a little bookish chat!
It was only in July 2016 that I fell head over heels in love with the YA genre of books and since then it's been a consistent love of my fictional reading pursuit. I was introduced to the Dystopian world through reading The Selection Series by Kiera Cass which whilst some may roll their eyes at, I actually enjoyed and will always have a soft spot for - for without those books I wouldn't be reading so much YA fiction now. Starting with a soft Dystopian novel really helped me in making the transition to the more Fantasy based genre that Sarah J Maas writes.
The Sarah J Maas obsession and fandom has long been popular amongst the "serious" book bloggers & influencers for some time yet I failed to "get it"...like at all! I say that behind my hands now because having read A Court of Thorns and Roses (referred to as ACOTAR) I totally get it!!! Whilst I've now read the first 2 books in the series and am onto the third, this review is for the first book - ACOTAR so let's refocus.
This book was a bit of a jump for my imagination into the fantasy genre but once I got started I couldn't put it down and picked up my kindle at every available chance I had - and I mean even whilst waiting for the kettle to boil or whilst filling the bathtub to immerse myself into both bath and book!
The main characters in this book (and we do meet a fair few so be aware of that if you're used to reading about 1-2 central characters) are Feyre (Mortal), her sisters and father (mortal), Tamlin (High-Fae Lord of the Spring Court, Lucien (Tamlin's friend), Rhysland (Interesting character - High Fae-Lord of the Night Court, Sexual Slave to Amarantha who is an evil evil ... so and so! and one to watch!).
You'll see that I mentioned a series of "courts" and I should mention that I love how the author has sectioned off the United Kingdom and turned Cornwall and Devon areas into the Mortal Lands, and then the rest of the country is split into various courts such as; Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter, Day, Night, Dawn, etc. Each Court has a High Fae Lord and there has been some discord amongst them.
We see Feyre begin with hunting in the Mortal Lands where she lives and about to make a killing that will send her on a journey she could never have imagined for herself. This one shot means that everything as she knows it will change and it could take some getting used to. We see a romance blossom between Tamlin and Feyre once she adjusts and at points throughout I could see a similarity to the Disney Classic; Beauty and the Beast but in a mashup retelling...sort of... sort of not. I think that's what sold me really as at the time of reading I was heavy into Disney retellings. This romance isn't all that it seems and the twists and turns continue into book 2 and beyond.
The scenes in this book are categorically some of the best written descriptions and in depth character development plots I've ever read, and for that alone it has to be said that Sarah J Maas has got a talent that must be appreciated for its expertise. The graphic nature of these scenes aren't for the faint hearted and all I'd say is don't eat food whilst reading those scenes - not unless you want to see it again that is. This is not a bad thing but rather a compliment to the way in which Sarah develops the plot and characters and brings to life words from a page into the imaginations of the reader.
During the last chapters of ACOTAR I admit that I did cry - I didn't think I would cry during violent scenes of a high fantasy novel set in faeland but alas I did due to the sheer beauty and delicate nature of the intricately woven emotions of the characters.
If you've been wanting to try a YA Fantasy and this one seems to keep popping up and has left you wondering if you should - I would hand on heart say "GO FOR IT". I'm hooked now and book two couldn't arrive quickly enough so upon completing this book I immediately downloaded the next installment. That's a perk to waiting until the hype has hyped down over a big series like this, there's no waiting around a year for the next installment - it's instantly at your finger tips.
I have to award A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas 5/5 stars because it was unputdownable, thrilling, and the work of a pure literary genius.
To buy your copy please use this link and full disclosure; it is an affiliate link so I earn a tiny amount of money if you purchase through me.
**Have you read A Court of Thorns and Roses? What are your thoughts? Have you reviewed it? Leave a comment and/or link below so we can open up a discussion about this book. I'd love to know what your thoughts are on this book**
Speak soon lovely,
Dawn-Tracy
xxx
Hello My loves,
How are you doing?! It really has been a while since I wrote on here and came to have a little chat with you. I can't believe that my last post was all the way back in February!! Well I'm back now and I have lots to tell you my darling readers. But first can I just tell you just how much I have missed YOU!! Yes YOU!! Ahhh come here and give me a squeeze!
So, as we usually do, we go grab a cuppa and then we come back, make ourselves comfy and we can have a good old catch up, so go pop the kettle on, and then come on back and I'll tell you all about my life and what I've been upto!
How are you doing?! It really has been a while since I wrote on here and came to have a little chat with you. I can't believe that my last post was all the way back in February!! Well I'm back now and I have lots to tell you my darling readers. But first can I just tell you just how much I have missed YOU!! Yes YOU!! Ahhh come here and give me a squeeze!
So, as we usually do, we go grab a cuppa and then we come back, make ourselves comfy and we can have a good old catch up, so go pop the kettle on, and then come on back and I'll tell you all about my life and what I've been upto!
So what do you think of my new hair? Isn't it fab?! I absolutely LOVE it, I'm not sure why I always have the bug to grow my hair to Rapunzel lengths sometimes - perhaps it's because I'm a big Disney girl at heart? But I always feel so much better with this length hair.
Anyway, you want to know what's kept me so busy and distracted that I've not been here for you don't you? Well, let's start at the beginning shall we?
Anyway, you want to know what's kept me so busy and distracted that I've not been here for you don't you? Well, let's start at the beginning shall we?
A year ago, I had my heart broken and my relationship broke down despite my efforts to save it - purely because it was just my efforts and it takes two to tango so they say although I've never actually done the tango because I've never learnt it - but I digress, and now, in hindsight I'm extremely glad it did happen when it happened because well.. you'll see in a minute!
So, then September came and it was back to work for me with my little darlings in Year 2 - bring on every virus you can catch! I had 5-6 bouts of cold, flu, laryngitis, tonsillitis, and chest infections galore up until about April time.
So, whilst I was fitting in reading here and there, I wasn't reading quickly enough or well enough between work and my days off to blog. I literally needed to conserve all my energy especially having asthma it hit me quite badly. I was also knee deep in finishing my degree off and working towards my Specialist Support Teacher qualification.
So, then that led me to Easter time and the run up to May...This is where things got interesting. I partly decided to focus on me and what I wanted out of life, I'd reached that place where I was happy within myself and had gotten used to being single. Then in June...when I was about to jump in the shower I kept getting these annoying notifications on my phone. I looked at them, and just deleted them on sight - I didn't even bother to look at them. Then when I reach the shower I realise I've forgotten my towel - so a quick run to get my towel and my phone bleeps again. You can imagine my annoyance - but something told me to look at it. So I did. And there was a message from this guy. So I opened it, read it, and as a smile spread across my face and I gave a little giggle - I replied.
And, since that day, we haven't had a day without speaking to each other, and we've had some amazing days out and dates away and whilst our first date was as memorable as I think you could ever get one :) every day just gets better and better with this man in my life.
So, now as I'm enjoying my summer holiday from work (YAY!!!) I'm getting back into my reading and blogging (hopefully), as well as a few new exciting things happening.
And, since that day, we haven't had a day without speaking to each other, and we've had some amazing days out and dates away and whilst our first date was as memorable as I think you could ever get one :) every day just gets better and better with this man in my life.
So, now as I'm enjoying my summer holiday from work (YAY!!!) I'm getting back into my reading and blogging (hopefully), as well as a few new exciting things happening.
Firstly, I've created another blog, a sister blog if you like for this one, which is going to be my Lifestyle blog where you can read all about .. well my life, crochet, crafts, my life as a primary school specialist support teacher and HLTA, - basically everything non book related will be on there... well almost everything, I've got to keep areas of my life private but you get the gist. You can find me at Our Country Home Comforts
Secondly, I'm enjoying my life a lot more now, in large part due to the absolutely amazing man I have been so lucky to have found - seriously, he's amazing and yes I'm biased but still! I've honestly never been this happy before my loves, and he is just EVERYTHING.
Thirdly, because I could gush about him all day! - I passed my teaching course! Yay! So, no more studying now for at least 18 months when I decide to begin my actual full on teacher training for a year with Schools Direct. We've even spoken about the fact that I might wait until after I've had our first baby before I do that purely because well... we both want to be parents - but not quite yet - I enjoy having him all to myself and I'm not ready to share him haha.
I also passed my degree - hooray!! That degree was tough and I am SO glad that it's done now.
I've fallen back in love with my teaching career despite the hiccups last year personally and a few this year professionally, I love my job and I love the children I work with. It's a lovely feeling to feel happy with what you have in life and whilst always being open to more success and more life experiences, I'm truly happy with where I am and where we're heading.
So that's me my loves, I think I've updated you with everything, ... *ponders*....hmmm oh, the other thing which you'll probably read more about at Our Country Home Comforts and the instagram account to go with it is that I've recently joined Weightwatchers for 6 months online, to become the healthiest and fittest I've ever been. I've had a lot to deal with over the past year, and a lot of that has caused stress and increased cortisol in my life which has meant I've gone from emotionally eating for comfort, and then to not eating due to heart break. So the body has taken one for the team, and now this is my way of repaying it, of saying thank you for supporting me through the hard times, but I've got you now, and I'm going to take care of you.
That's me definitely done now... so what's been going on with you? I know I've caught up with some of you on the facebook page and had a quick chat with you all, but if you have a few minutes, just say Hi, and let me know you're still about and that you're OK. I'll be back soon with some book posts, some fun, some reviews, and other things in between.
You take care of yourself, and we'll catch up again real soon,
Love Dawn-Tracy xxx
Happy New Year Lovely Readers!
I hope that you are well and are feeling good.
I know it's New Year's Day but what better day to start as you mean to go on right? In fact today is the absolute PERFECT day for me to tell you all about this fabulously creative book that I just know you are going to LOVE.
Tamara Laporte is HUGE in the mixed media art world - trust me I don't even do this type of art but I have a beautiful friend who does and I know through her just how BIG the mixed media art world is. Think of the book and blogging community and relate that to art and you have an idea. So from what I know before diving into this book Mixed Media art is literally an art form that is meant to be therapeutic and anything goes. Literally. You take any book ( they can be our books - and by "our books" I mean our novels) or art sketchbook with the right type of paper and you literally create art in them. I know, my fellow bookish lovers the thought of painting, drawing even writing in our precious books causes us to gain a beating heart in need of steadying. But these beautiful artists do it with such love and creativity that you kind of forgive them. A little.
The book cover shows what Mixed Media Art generally looks like - from what I know of the one circle I was aware of. Let's take a closer look.
Celebrate and honor your creative potential with Create Your Life Book!
Based on much-loved mixed-media artist Tamara Laporte’s popular, multi-year series of online classes, Create Your Life Book offers mixed-media drawing and painting projects that can raise your awareness of and help you work through personal challenges and other obstacles to creating art and achieving self-fulfillment.
Each themed chapter presents 4 or 5 two-part projects: The first part of each project explores a common issue that hampers creativity and/or positive self-worth, and includes a worksheet or list of questions to be answered; the second part is a step-by-step mixed-media art project that provides a way for artists at all skill levels to contemplate and work through that issue. Also included are projects contributed by some of Tamara’s Life Book guest teachers--Roxanne Coble, Andrea Gomoll, Alena Hennessy, Mystele Kirkeeng, Ivy Newport, and Effy Wild--who are noted mixed-media artists in their own right. Along the way, Tamara shares inspirational photos and uplifting and encouraging affirmations. The final chapter presents a simple binding method for creating a keepsake book of your Life Book projects.
Tamara Laporte created an online art class called Life Book, and it's where you take a theme such as "Gratitude" or "Letting Go" and you create an art piece about all things you're grateful for, or you want to let go and you draw/paint/blend/pastel in your representations of the theme. You can add words (perhaps cut out from books/newspapers/magazines/printed from online/calligraphy by hand etc) to your work to add personal touches. This is where the journalling comes in (I think).
Anyway, the course proved so popular that Tamara has finally been able to bring us our very own Mixed Media Art class into book form. I was so excited to review this and try out the techniques because having a friend who is so talented at this stuff I have always been in awe of her and her talent. It's no secret that if I could do this art style then I would be so happy. So I had to try.
The first art project in the book is themed around Letting Go - and I think it's perfect to try and do at some point this month if you can as it's another way of setting goals and intentions for the coming year.
If you're new to creating Mixed Media Art or any form of art then you might be worried that you will be overwhelmed by it all, but Tamara has written this book with you in mind. She takes you step by step through every piece of the art projects, and includes colour photos of each step to give you an idea of how to do your piece. At the start of the book Tamara talks you through the things you'll need and alternatives. Now, you might feel like it's going to cost you a fortune but again, from my lovely friend, I learnt that you use what you have and build up your art stash slowly.
Each year since losing my Auntie I've kind have promised myself and my auntie that I will do things that will create memories for me and my friends and family. The first year was Crochet which I still do (and will be blogging more about), last year was lifestyle blogging/instagramming, and 2018 will include all that and more. But I would love to create some Mixed Media Art pieces this year, so watch this space as I've NEVER done any of this type of art before. The most I've ever done is sketching and using pastels. So it will be quite a journey.
From the moment I opened up this book to review I knew it was going to be an amazing way to start 2018, and I knew I had to buy it for my friend for Christmas. Keeping it a secret from her for over a month was SO hard! I just wanted to scream "Look what i've got you!!!" but I kept quiet. I love this book... And I know you will too.
I am awarding this book 5/5 for the creativity, the beautiful layout, the projects and their therapeutic benefits, and the amazing opportunity it gives us to document our lives adding to our life, happiness and legacy.
You can purchase your copy of Tamara Laporte's Create Your Life Book here
I hope that you are well and are feeling good.
I know it's New Year's Day but what better day to start as you mean to go on right? In fact today is the absolute PERFECT day for me to tell you all about this fabulously creative book that I just know you are going to LOVE.
Tamara Laporte is HUGE in the mixed media art world - trust me I don't even do this type of art but I have a beautiful friend who does and I know through her just how BIG the mixed media art world is. Think of the book and blogging community and relate that to art and you have an idea. So from what I know before diving into this book Mixed Media art is literally an art form that is meant to be therapeutic and anything goes. Literally. You take any book ( they can be our books - and by "our books" I mean our novels) or art sketchbook with the right type of paper and you literally create art in them. I know, my fellow bookish lovers the thought of painting, drawing even writing in our precious books causes us to gain a beating heart in need of steadying. But these beautiful artists do it with such love and creativity that you kind of forgive them. A little. The book cover shows what Mixed Media Art generally looks like - from what I know of the one circle I was aware of. Let's take a closer look.
Celebrate and honor your creative potential with Create Your Life Book!
Based on much-loved mixed-media artist Tamara Laporte’s popular, multi-year series of online classes, Create Your Life Book offers mixed-media drawing and painting projects that can raise your awareness of and help you work through personal challenges and other obstacles to creating art and achieving self-fulfillment.
Each themed chapter presents 4 or 5 two-part projects: The first part of each project explores a common issue that hampers creativity and/or positive self-worth, and includes a worksheet or list of questions to be answered; the second part is a step-by-step mixed-media art project that provides a way for artists at all skill levels to contemplate and work through that issue. Also included are projects contributed by some of Tamara’s Life Book guest teachers--Roxanne Coble, Andrea Gomoll, Alena Hennessy, Mystele Kirkeeng, Ivy Newport, and Effy Wild--who are noted mixed-media artists in their own right. Along the way, Tamara shares inspirational photos and uplifting and encouraging affirmations. The final chapter presents a simple binding method for creating a keepsake book of your Life Book projects.
Tamara Laporte created an online art class called Life Book, and it's where you take a theme such as "Gratitude" or "Letting Go" and you create an art piece about all things you're grateful for, or you want to let go and you draw/paint/blend/pastel in your representations of the theme. You can add words (perhaps cut out from books/newspapers/magazines/printed from online/calligraphy by hand etc) to your work to add personal touches. This is where the journalling comes in (I think).
Anyway, the course proved so popular that Tamara has finally been able to bring us our very own Mixed Media Art class into book form. I was so excited to review this and try out the techniques because having a friend who is so talented at this stuff I have always been in awe of her and her talent. It's no secret that if I could do this art style then I would be so happy. So I had to try.
The first art project in the book is themed around Letting Go - and I think it's perfect to try and do at some point this month if you can as it's another way of setting goals and intentions for the coming year.
If you're new to creating Mixed Media Art or any form of art then you might be worried that you will be overwhelmed by it all, but Tamara has written this book with you in mind. She takes you step by step through every piece of the art projects, and includes colour photos of each step to give you an idea of how to do your piece. At the start of the book Tamara talks you through the things you'll need and alternatives. Now, you might feel like it's going to cost you a fortune but again, from my lovely friend, I learnt that you use what you have and build up your art stash slowly.
Each year since losing my Auntie I've kind have promised myself and my auntie that I will do things that will create memories for me and my friends and family. The first year was Crochet which I still do (and will be blogging more about), last year was lifestyle blogging/instagramming, and 2018 will include all that and more. But I would love to create some Mixed Media Art pieces this year, so watch this space as I've NEVER done any of this type of art before. The most I've ever done is sketching and using pastels. So it will be quite a journey.
From the moment I opened up this book to review I knew it was going to be an amazing way to start 2018, and I knew I had to buy it for my friend for Christmas. Keeping it a secret from her for over a month was SO hard! I just wanted to scream "Look what i've got you!!!" but I kept quiet. I love this book... And I know you will too.
I am awarding this book 5/5 for the creativity, the beautiful layout, the projects and their therapeutic benefits, and the amazing opportunity it gives us to document our lives adding to our life, happiness and legacy.
You can purchase your copy of Tamara Laporte's Create Your Life Book here
* Thank you Quarry Books for sending me this book to review, Happy New Year *
Hello Lovely,
How are you? I would ask if you are enjoying the weather, but right now here in the UK we're having a typical British Summer that feels very much like Autumn and fears of Summer having abandoned us early are unspoken.
Today however I am stopping by to tell you all about a fabulous story that will have you dreaming of sunshine and escaping for summer from your daily grind. I am grateful to be taking part in the Blog Tour for TA Williams (he's a favourite author of my Mum's) and his new book; To Provence with Love. Shall we take a look?
To Provence with Love is written by TA Williams, and it is published by HQ Digital. You can purchase a copy via Amazon
Escape to the south
of France with this perfect feel-good summer romance!
Anything is
possible…
Struggling writer
Faye Carter just can’t believe her luck. She’s off to Provence to write the autobiography
of a famous film star and she’ll be staying in the stunning chateau!
So when she meets
charming (and completely gorgeous) lavender farmer, Gavin, she knows that she’s
made the right choice – even if glamourous, elderly Anabelle seems to be hiding
something…
But when the sun is
shining, the food is delicious and the air smells of honey, anything seems
possible. Will the magic of Provence help Faye finally find a happy-ever-after
of her own?
At first I admit that reading a story set in France wasn't the top of my list - I'm much more fond of stories set in Italy BUT I'm so glad that I did because I would have missed out on a real gem of a book had I not. To Provence with Love is a beautiful story that had me reminiscing about films I've watched in the past and for this reason I was completely swept away by it.
TA Williams, writes the most beautifully detailed descriptions of the location that I was utterly romanticized by it all and it had me wanting to book a ticket to the French countryside to see these lavender fields first hand (If only I had my passport!). If you think the cover to this story is beautiful, you will be mesmerized by the actual detail found within it.
We meet Faye who I could closely identify with - she's a school teacher who loves her job but is rather fed up with the administration of the school -in particular the head teacher. I can 100% relate to this, and so when Faye is offered the chance to do something different and get paid to do it she jumps at it. Like Faye, I've been given the opportunity to get out of a similar school and work somewhere else - not as exciting as Faye's opportunity - but I still grabbed the opportunity for myself.
Faye heads off to Provence to write an autobiography for a famous old lady who is Hollywood royalty and gets swept away with not only listening to Miss Beech's life story unfold, but her own starts to take a turn. Of course there are two men who Faye meets; Obelix...I'll let you discover that one! and Gavin the hunky dark haired gorgeously handsome farmer...But after Faye having her heart broken by her womanizing ex she's not interested and Gavin has Dominique anyway...doesn't he? So she's thrilled that she can be just friends.
Faye heads off to Provence to write an autobiography for a famous old lady who is Hollywood royalty and gets swept away with not only listening to Miss Beech's life story unfold, but her own starts to take a turn. Of course there are two men who Faye meets; Obelix...I'll let you discover that one! and Gavin the hunky dark haired gorgeously handsome farmer...But after Faye having her heart broken by her womanizing ex she's not interested and Gavin has Dominique anyway...doesn't he? So she's thrilled that she can be just friends.
I'll be honest and say that I haven't quite finished the book yet so even though I would never spoil the story for you - I couldn't anyway because I don't know just yet. I'm enjoying the storyline, and the setting. The characters are warming, honest and enjoyable to read. Even though I've not yet finished, I'm awarding this book 4/5 because it is an amazing story, superbly written and a joy to read.
All About The Author
I write under the androgynous name T A Williams because 65% of books are
read by women. In my first book, "Dirty Minds" one of the (female)
characters suggests the imbalance is due to the fact that men spend too much
time getting drunk and watching football. I couldn't possibly comment. Ask my
wife...
I've
written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I'm
enjoying myself hugely writing humour and romance. Romantic comedies are what
we all need from time to time. Life isn’t always very fair. It isn’t always a
lot of fun, but when it is, we need to embrace it. If my books can put a smile
on your face and maybe give your heartstrings a tug, then I know I’ve done my
job.
I‘ve lived
all over Europe, but now I live in a little village in sleepy Devon, tucked
away in south west England. I love the place. That’s why you’ll find leafy
lanes and thatched cottages in most of my books. Oh, yes, and a black Labrador.
I've been
writing since I was 14 and that is half a century ago. However, underneath this
bald, wrinkly exterior, there beats the heart of a youngster. My wife is
convinced I will never grow up. I hope she's right.
Hi Lovely!
How are you? How was your weekend? I'm just sitting with a nice lemon tea (my favourite beverage) and thought I'd pop in and have a chat with you about a book that I've recently read. This book is not only a real treat to read that actually helped me get out of a reading slump, but it's actually making me feel quite broody! Now my Mr is aware I've been reading the book and he said "the book sounds so good" but I don't think he quite knows the fact that its made me broody haha. So, Mr, if you're ready this on your day off whilst I'm being "Moaning Myrtle" - as in Myrtle Warren (HARRY POTTER DAY!) at work then - .... Surprise haha, Your girlfriend is officially broody!
So, this book is a beautiful looking book that is absolutely a winner in my eyes for being a debut. Let's take a look shall we? The First Time Mums' Club is the debut novel from Lucie Wheeler. HarperImpulse published it and I was fortunate enough to receive an eBook ARC from them (Thank you HarperImpulse).
You can purchase your copy from Amazon here (paperback is out 13th July)
As you can see, the cover is delightful, and you can obsviosuly work out that it's a novel about a group of women who are pregnant - for the first time. Shall we see what the blurb says?
A gorgeous, heartwarming debut for fans of Giovanna Fletcher, Paige Toon and The Unmumsy Mum!
Meet Pippa…
After years of trying and a failed IVF attempt, Pippa is thrilled to see two little lines appear on a pregnancy test. Finally a precious baby to call her own. This is all Pippa has ever wanted…if only husband Jason could show just a little excitement.
Imogen…
A baby is the icing on the cake for Imogen and Alice – proof that their love for each other can overcome any obstacle. But when Imogen starts receiving malicious texts, it's clear that not everyone is thrilled about the girls' good news.
And Ellie…
A drunken one-night stand and Ellie's life is ruined! Pregnant, jobless and the relationship with her best friend, Chris, over- forever. Because Chris just happens to be the father of Ellie's baby…and potentially the love of her life!
For these first time mums the road to motherhood is bumpier than most!
I loved this book from start to finish, I genuinely did. I am very fortunate that 98% of the books I receive are spot on with regards to my interests and this was one of those. I love supporting debut authors because you are potentially holding their dream, their 'book baby' in your hands and they are trusting you to be honest and be gentle with it. This can sometimes scare me as a blogger because I always have to remind myself - that I have nothing of their previous work to compare it to, this is it. This is the first impression going out into the world.
Lucie, I'll put you at ease; as far as I'm concerned you have a beautiful bouncing book baby here and I can't wait to see what you bring us next.
Lucie, I'll put you at ease; as far as I'm concerned you have a beautiful bouncing book baby here and I can't wait to see what you bring us next.
So why did I like it so much?
Well, firstly the topic; new mums. This is something that of course at my age I've thought about and I've talked about - a lot, it is something that I've literally dreamt about on many occasions. Literally. Becoming a mum for the first time as much as it can be joyous, i'm sure that a lot of mums will agree with me here when I say that it can be the most terrifying, emotional, scary yet exhilarating experience ever. I know for myself personally, as much as I a m looking forward to becoming a Mum - and believe me I am - I've got the crochet homemade baby blanket patterns, ideas and booties all ready in my mind, along with the nursery decor, it actually does scare me a little.
Lucie shares this journey with you in The First Time Mums' Club so brilliantly and she weaves in so many possibilities for a first time pregnancy that I am sure there is something that everyone can identify with. We have the couple that's been trying for years, couples who've tried IVF, same sex marriage and parenthood, couples who break up, couples who do the unthinkable, and then we have the "friends with benefits" couple. It's jam packed with gorgeous storylines that you will find it very hard to become bored with the story.
So many important topics came up in this book that I feel I need to mention; same sex marriage and the trials and tribulations that come with it, miscarriage, abortion, decision making, infidelity, twins, juggling motherhood and work. And that's just to share a few.
All I will say, is that the epilogue could have been lengthened and turned into a follow up book because I would have loved to have read about the first year as parents. Other than that, it is a splendid debut, a spectacular storyline and one that I will be recommending for a long time to come. Congratulations Lucie!!!
Therefore I am awarding this book 4.5/5 stars.
Hello Lovely,
Thank you for stopping by, it's been a long time hasn't it? But as you can see, I've had a bit of a renovation here, we've had paint charts, material swatches, and in the end we came up with this... a gorgeous Cath Kitson inspired cosy nook in blues and reds, florals and a gorgeous bunting to boot! I do hope you love it as much as I do.
I'm glad that you stopped by today actually, because I wanted to tell you about two absolutely gorgeous books I've read during the renovation - you just have to down tools and relax sometimes don't you think?
Well, these books are by one of my favourite authors, you've perhaps heard of her; Tilly Tennant ... yes, she has two gorgeous new books out and they scrumptiously follow on from each other. I love it when you discover a series of books and fall in love with them don't you? These books are set in my ultimate dream country; Italy, Rome in fact. You might remember me saying that I can't wait to travel to Rome with my handsome other half, well I had a bit of a sneaky trip reading these books.
Shall I tell you more? Good, I was hoping you'd say that. Grab a cuppa, and snuggle down in my cosy nook for the love of books...
Rome Is Where The Heart Is by Tilly Tennant, is published by Bookouture. I had the pleasure of reading an advanced review copy in ebook format (thank you Bookouture).
You can purchase from Amazon here
The blurb is delightfully exciting, here read it yourself and see what you think;
"Can a holiday romance ever have a happy ending? Escape with Kate to the sun-drenched city of Rome where a love affair is just about to begin…
When Kate’s husband Matt dumps her on Friday 13th she decides enough is enough – it’s time for her to have some fun and so she hops on a plane to Rome. A week of grappa and gelato in pavement cafes under azure blue skies will be just what the doctor ordered.
What she doesn’t count on is meeting and falling for sexy policeman Alessandro. But the course of true love doesn’t run smoothly – Alessandro has five meddling sisters, a fearsome mama and a beautiful ex Orazia. They’re all certain that Kate is not the girl for him.
Can Kate and Alessandro’s love last the distance? Or will she return home with the one souvenir she doesn’t want – a broken heart …"
However, intrigue soon got the best of me and I couldn't wait to begin this story. I was swept into the storyline like a sweet breeze, however the setting at first was anything but when the domestic situation Kate found herself in with her husband, Matt left much to be desired for. Matt was a complete and utter idiot for doing what he did, but I think, Kate was better off in the end.
Doing what she should have done all along, Kate followed her heart (and mine) and boarded a plane to Rome...if only she'd told me she was going :)
The description of Rome had you feeling torn between downing the pages to book a flight yourself, and eagerly gripping the book in order to not miss one single detail out. Tilly created such highly detailed descriptions that you almost kid yourself into thinking that you were there yourself! Each chapter came with more exquisite imagery, and the plot literally thickened especially when that sexy Italian policeman in his uniform showed up...between just you and I, I was categorically drooling myself for Alessandro.
The romance that blossomed between those pair in my opinion could give Romeo and Juliet a run for their money, but set in such a romantic place, romance had to blossom didn't it? But, as in all truly beautiful love stories - they do not always run smoothly...
I am giving this book 5/5 because I simply loved it!
I devoured each page like a delicious bowl of pasta (I love my carbs), and I couldn't wait to get my hands on the next book to see exactly what happened with Kate and Alessandro. Luckily for me, I didn't have to wait that long before ...
A Wedding in Italy by Tilly Tennant, again published by Bookouture. I had the privilege of reading an Advanced Review Copy in eBook format. (Thank you again, Bookouture).
You can purchase from Amazon here
Fancy reading what this one's all about? Let's read the blurb...
Sun, spaghetti and sparkling prosecco. When it comes to finding love, there’s no place like Rome…
Kate is living the dream with her gorgeous boyfriend Alessandro in his native city, but the reality is sometimes a little less romantic than she’d hoped. Every day in her new home is a fight against leaking pipes, her cantankerous landlord and her less-than-perfect grasp of the Italian lingo.
All around her there is talk of weddings, but when a secret from her past is thrust out into the open, Kate must fight to prove to Alessandro’s Mamma – and the rest of his formidable family – that she truly is Italian marriage material.
With the women in Alessandro’s life on a mission to break them apart, the cracks begin to show and Kate starts to question if Alessandro really is the man of her dreams. Can love and the city of romance conquer all, or is that just a fairy-tale?
What I can mention is that I really sympathised with Kate as she tried so hard to make a new life for herself in Rome. She searched for a new job, she worked hard, she ignored those who doubted her, she had troublesome meddling women in her life who in my opinion just needed to mind their own business! And then she had the sexy Italian policeman in and out of his uniform.. I'm not jealous. Honest.
Italian tradition means that getting married to a non catholic, non italian divorced woman is a HUGE no no! So Kate has to prove to Alessandro's mum that she is marriage material.
I adored this book with all my heart, both books in fact. However, I am going to be a bit picky here - I just wish the final chapter was stretched out and made into a third book because I really think it could have been. BUT I am hopeful still that we see another installment in this series because I loved the characters, I loved the setting, I loved the twists and turns in the plot, I love the important issues raised in the book, and I just miss them to be honest. I've had book-hangover since finishing this.
I am giving this gorgeous book 4/5 just because I wanted it to be stretched a bit further.
If Italy is a place your heart travels to, and you love romance, then this series of books is a MUST this year.
Have you read these books? Let me know below, leave me a little message because I've got to pop out now, but I'll read them when I get back.
I've loved having you around, please come back soon, and we can chat more about books in my cosy nook for the love of books,
Love Dawn-Tracy xxx
A hilarious feel good read about finding your feet when life pulls the rug out from under you.
Poppy Bloom planned to finish her PhD and walk straight into a job at her university. But here she is, unemployed, unceremoniously dumped by her boyfriend, and living back at her mum’s in her vampire-themed childhood bedroom.
Not exactly what she was hoping for.
But when Poppy sets her mind to something, nothing can stand in her way. She scores herself an internship at the hottest radio station in town, joins a netball team, and renews her friendship with her oldest friend Leanne. Spending time with Leanne’s gorgeous twin Tom is just a bonus…
But life has a way of tripping you up when you least expect it, and Poppy soon has to decide where her priorities lie… With new friends, a new career and a new romance, can Poppy keep everyone happy, or is everything about to tumble down around her?
A laugh-out-loud story about friendship, second chances, and new love, perfect for fans of Lindsey Kelk, Marian Keyes and Jane Costello.
I laughed out loud so much that I cried reading this book, but not because I was laughing at the main character, Poppy, but rather laughing with her. I felt that I could have written this book, and I just have to thank Colleen for FINALLY writing an honest book about what really goes on with graduates and people who all their life have done the 'right thing', played by the rules, right from Nursery (or Reception class in Poppy's case) and still get sh%t on! Thank you!
The plot is unique - in regards to anything I've ever read before, describing it as the perfect book for Lindsey Kelk fans is perfect, and I'd go as far as saying any Sophie Kinsella fans - particularly the Shopaholic series would LOVE this book if it's the humour, comedy and relatable characters that float your boat.
We meet Poppy who is getting her PhD and finally becoming Doctor Poppy. She thinks the skies the limit for her now, that she'll even be given a fellowship. But life - the crafty cunning swine has other plans for Poppy. At first I wondered if anything was going to go right - it was like all her bad luck came at once. The fellowship, the boyfriend and the best friend! And I know what that feels like!
But despite Poppy's bad luck, we get to go on a journey with her that sees her playing netball (after basically getting dragged out of bed by her team mates), take a shine to a blast from her past, grieve for someone close to her, and become quite the talent when it comes to radio...
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and really can't wait to see what comes next from Colleen - she's an author to watch & anticipate what follows. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending this book. I genuinely really enjoyed it.Thanks to Bookouture for the advanced press copy in exchange for an honest review.
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