When I met Barbara Henderson at a lunch in Edinburgh all those years ago, I had no idea quite what a talented writer I had in front of me. Since then it has been my privilege to read many of her books for children and you’ll find my reviews here.

As a result, despite not taking on new tours at the moment, when Amy got in touch from Luath Press and asked if I would like to participate in the blog tour for Barbara’s latest book To War With Wallace, I jumped at the chance. It’s my pleasure to share my review and to close the tour today.

Published by Luath Press on 23rd August 2025, To War With Wallace is available for purchase through the links here where you’ll also find teaching resources for the book. 

To War With Wallace

Scottish Wars of Independence, 1297. Scottish resistance has been crushed, and King Edward, Hammer of the Scots, now rules the North.
Doesn’t he?

At Chester Castle, young apprentice armourer Harry has no idea just how much his life is going to change from the moment he is told to guard an imprisoned Scottish nobleman: the rebel Andrew de Moray. The boy’s momentary carelessness gives the prisoner all he needs: an opportunity to escape. Harry finds himself kidnapped, and on his way to Scotland.

Soon, he is caught up in the Northern Rising with its skirmishes and stealth attacks. But these are nothing to the storm of questions in Harry’s mind: Whose cause is right? Why has his new master joined forces with the outlaw William Wallace? Can his new friend Euphemia be trusted?

As arrows fly and swords clash at the battle of Stirling Bridge, Harry must choose: Whose side is he on?

My Review of To War With Wallace

Young apprentice armourer Harry finds himself caught up in history.

What a book! I’ve read so many of Barbara Henderson’s children’s books that I am beginning to run out of superlatives to describe them in review. To War With Wallace is truly fabulous and I found myself completely mesmerised by the storytelling. This is a gripping, exciting, story that uncovers a little known aspect of The Scottish Wars of Independence and that leaves the reader feeling that, not only have they read about it, but they have been alongside Harry and part of history too. I think this may be Barbara Henderson’s best book yet – and given that I think they are all brilliant, that’s saying something!

The plot is breath-taking. Fast paced, interesting and engaging, this is the narrative to enthral even the most reluctant of readers. I think it’s having a realistic, age appropriate protagonist in Harry who is universal that is so successful. He’s by no means a perfect individual, but he is quick witted, skilled and, equally, vulnerable, making him relatable and convincing. More well-known Wallace may be in the title of the book, but here Scottish/English history is brought to vivid life from the point of view of those without whom, the great names of the past would never have come to prominence. Harry and Euphemia may only be children, but their role in history is vital. In To War With Wallace not only entertains young readers (and older ones like me), but it gives them status and credibility.

The themes of To War With Wallace are presented to perfection. War is an obvious element and this story resonates with much of today’s world as well as presenting the past, helping children to make sense of what they see around them. But other themes are so sensitively handled too. The need for companionship and a sense of belonging threads through the story. Loyalty and the implications of choice illustrate that no decision, no allegiance, is without dilemma and difficulty so that young readers can begin to understand not only Harry, but themselves and those they come into contact with. I thought this aspect was magnificent. Equally important is the concept of hope even when life seems impossible, making To War With Wallace inspiring as well as brilliantly entertaining.

What I find so astonishing about this author’s writing is the way she educates, creates a sense of time and place and presents difficult elements like war and death in an accessible manner without ever shying away from facts or patronising her readers. This is an author who researches meticulously, and weaves a spellbinding tale that is written with such skill and care that I find it hard to express how impactful To War With Wallace is. The opportunities for classroom use are immense – from further historical and geographical research to drama presentations. I can imagine children writing diary extracts from a character’s point of view, or producing artwork surrounding some of the key plot points. They might learn a few words of Gaelic or German, or teach one another some of their own home languages for example. However, most of all I can see To War With Wallace simply being a fantastic read that grips a young reader’s imagination and spurs a lifetime’s love of reading. 

To War With Wallace is a triumph of a book. I thought it was wonderful and cannot recommend it highly enough – both for its target audience and for adults like me who appreciate magnificent writing and want to be royally entertained. To War With Wallace is, quite simply, not to be missed.

About Barbara Henderson

Barbara Henderson is the award-winning author of eleven books, including the Young Quills Award-winning novels The Chessmen Thief and The Siege of Caerlaverock, as well as Rivet Boy, winner of the Books for Topics Curriculum Support Award. Her historical and eco-fiction for children is widely studied in schools. Barbara is based in the Scottish Highlands where she still teaches Drama, but she loves to travel and spread the story-love in classrooms across the country. When she gets the chance, she likes to head outside, often to the nearby hills.

For further information, visit Barbara’s website, find her on Facebook or follow Barbara on Instagram and Bluesky. 

There’s more with these other bloggers too:

My huge thanks to Ayo Okojie at Quercus who sent me a copy of The Christmas Eve Murders by Noelle Albright way back in 2024. I’m delighted finally to have got round to reading it and to share my review today. 

Already available in other formats, The Christmas Eve Murders will be published in paperback by Quercus on 23rd October and is available for purchase through the publisher links here. 

The Christmas Eve Murders

It’s Christmas Eve at the Merry Monarch.

Nestled amongst the Yorkshire Dales, the pub is preparing to host its annual scavenger hunt for its rabble of regulars. There’s the landlord, Mickey, his wife Sofia and their wayward son, James; local policeman Alex and his supernaturally minded deputy Don; as well as Sita, Mrs Fazarkaley, the Kapoors and Curtis, who’s never far from his beloved dog Barkley. Quite the crowd.

And this year, they are interrupted by a knock at the door from Maddie Marlowe, a journalist who was homeward bound to Edinburgh for Christmas – only to be stranded by car failure, and by the snow storm that’s closing in on the village.

But Maddie’s arrival won’t be the only surprise of the night. When the power is cut off and darkness descends, the hunt turns deadly. Maddie and her unexpected Christmas companions must try to find the murderer amongst them, as it seems one of the group would kill to win . . .

My Review of The Christmas Eve Murders

Journalist Maddie Marlowe’s car has broken down en route to Edinburgh to spend Christmas with her parents.

What a fabulous cosy crime story. I loved every bit of The Christmas Eve Murders.

Those who eschew reading Christmas books other than in December needn’t worry at all. Whilst there is significance to the date, this book can be thoroughly enjoyed as a crime story at any time of the year. 

The plot is brilliant. It has all the hallmarks of traditional crime fiction, with unity of time – Christmas Eve, unity of place – the Merry Monarch inn, and unity of action – murder! With a carefully crafted cast of characters and a locked room feel as they are all trapped by the weather in the pub, The Christmas Eve Murders is such a satisfying narrative. There’s a real sense of Agatha Christie as the strands of the story play out, with a Poirotesque denouement when the killer is revealed. With outsider Maddie akin to the reader and gaining information at the same time as them, Noelle Albright really draws in that reader, holding their attention completely. Because it is so well written, I devoured this story and quite honestly suspected every character, except perhaps Maddie, as being the murderer – even the first victim! Add in power cuts, secret passageways, coded knocks on doors and there’s everything here to satisfy even the most demanding lovers of the genre.

I thought Maddie was inspired. She is realistic, level headed, witty and strong. However, she also has a vulnerability and hints about her past help develop her as a person so that I am desperate for her to appear in future stories.

Whilst murder is at the heart of the story, it is presented with a skilled lightness of touch so that there’s humour to be found too. Add in themes of family, community, age, romance, rivalry and just a hint of the supernatural and this is such a fabulous read. It would make the most perfect winter Sunday night television series.

Having struggled to read recently and having become weary of expletive ridden texts that aim to shock, The Christmas Eve Murders completely drew me in. Indeed, I thought The Christmas Eve Murders was a sparkling, entertaining and absorbing example of the genre and cannot recommend it highly enough. Wonderful stuff!

About Noelle Albright

Noelle Albright is a Yorkshire-born author and poet based in the north east of England. After completing her MA in creative writing at the York St John University, she wrote for a range of publications, edited her own independent film magazine and penned three non-fiction books. Noelle Albright currently lives by the sea in Sunderland, where under the name of Helen Cox she writes poetry, romance novellas and the Kitt Hartley Yorkshire Mystery Series.

It has been my privilege to receive and review a few Donna Ashworth’s books. You’ll find my reviews here. I have loved each one, so I was delighted when lovely Karen Stretch sent me a copy of Donna’s latest collection of poetry, Joy Chose You. It’s my very great pleasure to celebrate National Poetry Day today by sharing my review of Joy Chose You.

Joy Chose You is published today, 2nd October 2025, by Bonnier imprint Black & White and is available for purchase in all the usual places including here. 

Joy Chose You

Joy Chose You is a beautiful, colour-illustrated collection of Donna’s most-loved poems to bring more joy into our imperfect lives. When we allow joy to wrap her quiet warmth around us we find ourselves opening up to more life, love and light.

With poems such as ‘Joy Comes Back’, ‘Happy’ and ‘Unstoppable’, as well as 20 new poems, including ‘This Little Moment’, ‘Love Wins’ and ‘A Little Weird’, Donna’s wise words help us find hope in the dark, calm amid worry and greater joy in the beauty of living.

My Review of Joy Chose You

A collection of Donna Ashworth’s most popular poems.

What a beautiful book. I have to comment on the physical qualities of the hardback book as it is simply gorgeous. The deep green cover, sumptuous gold lettering and gold silk place marker give a traditional feel that is very high quality so that Joy Chose You would make a wonderful gift book. With occasional black for emphasis, the end papers and interior illustrations are the most soothing green with the alignment of text to illustration and white space so well balanced that the anthology creates a feeling of calm and soothes the reader before a single poem has been accessed. This really is a keepsake collection.

As well as poems, there are questions for reflection that encourage the reader to assess their life and there are beneficial suggestions so that perhaps readers might make changes in their lives as a result. There are also statements that sum up to perfection the aphorisms of life and short passages of prose that feel as if the author is speaking directly to the reader. I rarely quote from books as I think it can spoil the read for others, but I urge you to get a copy of the book, turn to page 227 and make Be The Peace your mantra for life. Joy Chose You is a collection that encourages, guides and supports as if Donna Ashworth is your oldest, most cherished friend speaking directly with you.

But of course, it is the poetry itself that is the shining star. If you’re looking for challenging literary allegory or scathing socio-political commentary in your poems, look elsewhere. Turn to Milton, the Metaphysicals, Dante or some other ‘great’ poet. If, however, you want to read words that speak to the heart and soul of who we are, that bring comfort and understanding and that make you feel seen and loved even in your darkest or most unattractive moment, then read Joy Chose You. I defy anybody, regardless of their education, their social status or their personal circumstances not to be able to find something in this anthology that resonates, supports and heals.

On that personal note, since Mum died a few weeks ago, I have found it impossible to settle to reading – which is normally a great passion. I’ve gone from reading 3 to 5 books a week to reading perhaps one book every 10 or 12 days. Picking up Joy Chose You, reading a whole poem or passage in a quiet moment and finding something with which I can identify has indeed returned that feeling of joy. Never mind joy choosing you; I suggest you choose this anthology and make your own life a happier and more positive place. I won’t be parting with my copy of Joy Chose You, but rather will return to it in those moments when I need its gentle support. 

About Donna Ashworth

Donna Ashworth is a number one Sunday Times Bestselling Poet, whose words you will often find flying around the internet, widely shared daily, by her 1.7 million followers.

Donna’s writing came to the spotlight during the lockdown period where she saw her purpose as building a place to find hope, calm and comfort, amidst the collective chaos. She quickly became an internet favourite with one viral post after another and a list of celebrity endorsements.

Priding herself on being ‘imperfectly human’ and ‘sharing the dark with the light to harness hope’, Donna engages constantly with her followers in a bid to find comfort in numbers as we ‘walk each other home’ on this journey of life.

For further information, visit Donna’s website, find her on Instagram or Facebook and follow Donna on X/Twitter @Donna_ashworth.

With Dr H and I proposing to backpack by train around Spain in 2026, returning to Barcelona as one of the stops, I am hugely indebted to Isabelle Wilson at Headline for sending me a copy of Barcelona, Block by Block by Cierra Block. It’s my pleasure to share my review today.

Barcelona, Block by Block was published by Welbeck on 15th May 2025 and is available for purchase through the publisher links here. 

Barcelona, Block by Block

For anyone who loves Barcelona-whether you’re a first-time tourist or a lifetime local-this is the book for you.

From museums and markets to bakeries and boutiques, artist Cierra Block unlocks the secrets of the city in Barcelona, Block by Block. Vibrantly illustrated and packed with insider-knowledge on the most notable places to eat, what to see, where to walk and what to do, this is a guide like no other.

Discover the masterpieces of Gaudí, explore breathtaking beaches or indulge in churros con chocolate-the options are endless! Find out how to navigate the Gothic Quarter like a pro, immerse yourself in iconic architecture and track down the very best tapas in town with Barcelona, Block by Block, a stunning guide to one of the most loved cities in the world.

My Review of Barcelona, Block by Block

A guide book of Barcelona.

What an interesting book! Firstly, the physical qualities of Barcelona, Block by Block make it an ideal gift book. It has a robust, hardwearing, cover that will endure being stuffed into a rucksack, whilst being beautiful enough to be retained in the home as a coffee table book too. At the risk of being oxymoronic, there’s a naive sophistication to the illustrations, making the book visually appealing and accessible. I thought Barcelona, Block by Block afforded the actual traveller, and an armchair traveller, a true insight into what is available in authentic Barcelona.

I thought the way the book was organised was ideal. Each section, such as restaurants, hiking or Barcelona in Spring, for example, has a brief one page introduction and then the rest of the section is a condensed gazetteer offering all kinds of locations, ideas and suggestions. Whilst I won’t be taking to a bicycle when I next visit Barcelona, I will be visiting the places suggested in the Gaudi cycling tour. I especially liked the Gardens section as an inspiration as I’ve never visited any in Barcelona before. Equally important to me was Children’s Barcelona. I always try not to encounter children when I’m away so I now know which areas to avoid! 

Whilst some of the entries may date or become unavailable in future years, none-the-less, Barcelona, Block by Block will remain an excellent starting point and inspiration for visiting the city. I have found several new aspects, places and experiences to explore and think Barcelona, Block by Block would make a lovely gift book for anyone thinking of visiting the city who is looking for insider information and fresh ideas of things to do.

About Cierra Block

Cierra Block is an artist, illustrator, and urban explorer with a passion for uncovering the hidden gems and local haunts that bring a city to life. Her infectious enthusiasm and captivating illustrations are on display in her series of travel guides, Block By Block, which takes readers on a delightful journey through the vibrant neighbourhoods of London, New York, Paris, and beyond, with more cities in the works.

Cierra’s unique approach to travel guides goes beyond the usual tourist traps. With her charming illustrated maps and insider tips, she invites readers to experience the cities like a local, from the perfect cup of coffee to the most beautiful hidden garden. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Cierra’s guides will inspire you to explore beyond the main avenues and discover the magic that lies within each city.

For further information, visit Cierra’s website, or find Cierra on Instagram.