My enormous thanks to lovely Georgia Hill for ensuring I received a copy of her latest book, Magpie, and to Tara Lyons for sending it to me. It’s my pleasure to share my review of Magpie today.

You’ll find Georgia’s other appearances on Linda’s Book Bag here. 

Magpie was published by Bloodhound on 26th August 2025 and is available for purchase here.

Magpie

Two women. Two centuries. One house full of secrets.

A spellbinding tale for fans of Weyward, where the past never truly dies…

When Beth Loveday retreats to a shadowed corner of the Devon coast, she hopes to rebuild her life in peace. But the old timbered shop she buys – Tenpenny House – has other plans. Strange objects hidden in the walls. A book of forgotten remedies. And dreams that feel like memories.

In 1660, Susanna Loveday walks the same worn floors. Apprentice to a healer, she’s swept into a deadly game of suspicion and power when whispers of witchcraft begin to spread. As danger closes in, a single choice will echo through time.

Linked by blood and bound by secrets, Beth and Susanna are caught in a web that spans centuries. The truth lies buried – but Tenpenny House remembers everything…

My Review of Magpie

Beth Loveday is moving into Tenpenny House.

Yes! What a cracking narrative. Magpie is what one might call a proper story and I thoroughly, thoroughly enjoyed it.

I’m not usually a great lover of dial timeline narratives, but in the case of Magpie it is perfect. When reading the seventeenth century parts I thought they were my favourite, being so authentic in creating a sense of time and place. And then, the moment I began reading the modern sections I felt they were my favourite elements. This is because Georgia Hill creates a sense of both history and modernity with aplomb. The shift in language formality is especially effective, particularly through direct speech, so that it places the reader at the heart of the two timescales. There’s also a really fascinating irony that I found the slightly supernatural suggestion of why Beth experiences unease in Tenpenny House far more unsettling than the witchcraft of the earlier century. I loved too the way snippets of historical detail were gathered by Beth and Nathan in much the same way a magpie gathers up shiny objects. 

What also works brilliantly is the manner in which echoes of the past in Susanna and Prudie’s story reverberate through the centuries to Beth and Nathan. There’s a hint of magical realism, a sense of history repeating itself and a glorious understanding of how the past in all its forms helps shape who we are in the present. I really loved the motifs threaded through; from the mock a pies, through the sense of history repeating itself, to the exploration of mental and physical health blended with science and superstition. Georgia Hill shows how today’s exploitation and online trolling really is a modern equivalent of the superstition, gossip and rumour that affected some women in the witch hunts of the sixteen hundreds. This makes for compelling reading.

And despite the control of men in Susanna and Prudie’s lives, and Hugh and Nathan’s importance in Beth’s life, this really is herstory at its best. Magpie is not only part historical drama, part modern romance and part mystery, but it is a celebration of women with all their many facets. Georgia Hill gives voice to the oppressed like Prudie, illustrating grit, determination and strength of character, but equally she doesn’t shy away from the indecision, spitefulness and manipulative ways some women can also behave. Beth in particular illustrates a strong feminist streak, but it is Susanna who truly embodies such strength. This gives a wonderful depth and texture to the book. 

So too does the backdrop of Tenpenny House. The setting feels creepy, bordering malevolent at times, and yet comforting and supportive at others. The writing had a real feel of Daphne du Maurier in the setting so that I was drawn further and further into the narrative.

I thought Magpie was absolutely engaging and entertaining and so well plotted. It’s just right for the increasingly dark evenings! Anyone reading it might just find themselves wanting to research their own ancestry, but you’ll need to read the book to see why. I really recommend that you do. 

About Georgia Hill

Georgia Hill writes warm-hearted and up-lifting contemporary and timeslip romances about love, the power and joy in being an eccentric oldie and finding yourself and your community. There’s always a dog. It’s usually a naughty spaniel of which, unfortunately, she has had much experience. She lives near the sea with her beloved dogs and husband (also beloved) and loves the books of Jane Austen, collecting elephants, Belgian chocolate and Strictly Come Dancing. She’s also a complete museum geek and finds inspiration for her books in the folklore and history of the many places in which she’s lived.

She’s worked in the theatre, for a charity and as a teacher and educational consultant before finally acknowledging that making things up was what she really wanted to do.

She’s been happily creating believable heroines, intriguing men and page-turning stories ever since.

For further information, follow Georgia on X @georgiawrites, visit her website, or find Georgia on Facebook,  Instagram and Bluesky. 

I’ve been meaning to read The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri since it came out, but life has always intervened. Today, however, I am delighted to share my review as The Beekeeper of Aleppo is my U3A book group’s choice this month and we’ll be discussing it later today.

The Beekeeper of Aleppo was published by Bonnier imprint Manila Press on in paperback on 20th February 2020 and is available for purchase here. 

The Beekeeper of Aleppo

In the midst of war, he found love

In the midst of darkness, he found courage

In the midst of tragedy, he found hope

What will you find from his story?

Nuri is a beekeeper; his wife, Afra, an artist. They live a simple life, rich in family and friends, in the beautiful Syrian city of Aleppo – until the unthinkable happens. When all they care for is destroyed by war, they are forced to escape. 

As Nuri and Afra travel through a broken world, they must confront not only the pain of their own unspeakable loss, but dangers that would overwhelm the bravest of souls. Above all – and perhaps this is the hardest thing they face – they must journey to find each other again.

Moving, powerful, compassionate and beautifully written, The Beekeeper of Aleppo is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit. Told with deceptive simplicity, it is the kind of book that reminds us of the power of storytelling.

My Review of The Beekeeper of Aleppo

Nuri is fleeing his homeland with his wife Afra to claim asylum in England.

The Beekeeper of Aleppo is simultaneously beautiful and brutal. Christy Lefteri’s prose is mesmerising, poetic, and stunning. She paints a picture of people and places with such skill it is impossible not to picture them in your mind’s eye. And yet her writing is equally spare, pared back and essential, particularly through direct speech, so that the narrative feels all the more affecting and profound. The fractured and yet united transition by white space and single words between chapters in The Beekeeper of Aleppo is utterly brilliant. Through this simple device the author illustrates the links between us all. The book illustrates that we can find common ground, common experiences and united humanity. This is such an important message. Indeed, the entire book is filed with stories – from the one we are reading to the ones Nuri tells Sami and Mohammed to those the characters share on their journeys. This really is a book about the power of language – not least because words are Afra’s ability to see.

I thought writing from Nuri’s perspective was inspired. Society spends so much time vilifying asylum seekers and immigrants and yet through Nuri’s story we begin to see beneath the headlines, discovering the truth about how and why the oppressed and displaced arrive in our countries. I loved the fact that Nuri is flawed and human. Here we have a man who is simply trying to survive, protect his wife and mourn the killing of his young son. I found the insight into his mental health made him all the more real and, whilst his narrative is hugely affecting, it had an additional impact for me from being through a man’s eyes because so much of the emotional first person fiction I encounter is from a female viewpoint. Seeing a man this way felt genuinely humanising. In amongst all the horrors he encounters on his journey and some of the dubious activities he needs to carry out, it was in fact, his small act of defiance towards his father’s business that undid me. His sense of guilt balanced against his need to tend the bees and the importance they have in his life was strikingly emotional.

I found Afra both heart-breaking and inspiring. Her blindness gives her an understandable vulnerability, and yet her strength is beyond measure. To endure what she does and survive is profoundly moving. 

Whilst Nuri and Afra encounter many others on their journey, the cast of characters is actually rather small, so that there’s a feeling of intimacy as well as universality in their narrative that is really impactful. The naming of Mohammed is perfect. One of the most popular names in the world means that we have a narrative in The Beekeeper of Aleppo that is true for so many people. I found it terrifying that the book was written before the current international conflicts and yet we seem to have regressed. This is a story I wish every world leader would read and reflect upon. The metaphor of the single wingless bee – a true character in the tale – could not have been better depicted. Nuri’s desperation to help it, its unsafe position in life and its tenacity was a real reflection of so many humans in the book. 

Filled with grief and sadness, The Beekeeper of Aleppo is, ultimately, a story of hope, of the power of love and the basic, human need to belong. I thought it was magnificent and cannot recommend it more highly I will not forget it in a hurry. 

About Christy Lefteri

 

Brought up in London, Christy Lefteri is the child of Cypriot refugees. She holds a PhD in creative writing from Brunel University, where she was a lecturer for many years. She is the author of Songbirds and the international bestseller The Beekeeper of Aleppo, which won the Aspen Words Literary Prize and was the runner-up for the Dayton Literary Peace Prize. Her first novel, A Watermelon, a Fish and a Bible, was longlisted for the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award.

For further information follow Christy on X @christy_lefteri.

It was my absolute pleasure to meet lovely Jenni Keer at the Love Stories etc fiction festival in Manchester back in July. I simply had to invite Jenni onto Linda’s Book Bag and with a brand new book out tomorrow, when better for Jenni to stay in with me?

Let’s find out more:

Staying in with Jenni Keer

Welcome to Linda’s Book Bag, Jenni and thank you for agreeing to stay in with me.

My absolute pleasure, Linda. What with the darker evenings and distinct drop in temperature over the last couple of weeks, staying in is by far the preferable option. *Grabs thick, knitted cardigan*

You’re absolutely right – and that’s a great cardi by the way! Tell me, which of your books have you brought along to share this evening and why have you chosen it?

 

I’ve brought my latest release, The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House. Look at the beautiful Cadbury’s purple cover! And all those skulls and bones dotted about in the thistle-themed border.

It’s a fantastic cover.

Hopefully, this gives the reader a sense of what the story might contain. The idea for this story came to me when I read about the graveyards falling into the sea as our coastlines erode. It got me thinking about who the bones might belong to and why they might be buried in the cliff… 

Oh. I hadn’t thought about that aspect of coastal erosion! When is The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House out? 

It’s published in all formats on 11th October, which is perfect in the run-up to Halloween. 

Happy publication day for tomorrow. So, what can we expect from an evening in with The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House?

To match the season, this book is a deliciously dark Victorian gothic novel, with my usual mix of romance and history, murder and mystery (oo, that rhymes!) and the sprinkling of magical realism that I’m now known for. It’s set in the fictional village of Thistlewick Tye on the north Norfolk coast, in the bleak autumn of 1895, but has a fabulous flashback to 1855, when a travelling circus visits the area and mysteriously disappears. If you’re interested in Victorian spiritualism, and enjoyed The Greatest Showman, this could be your cup of spooky tea.

It most certainly is. I can’t wait to read The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House and am thrilled to have a paperback copy (ebook readers can order it here today and have it just after midnight).

What else have you brought along and why have you brought it?

 

In my Red-Riding-Hood-style basket, I’ve brought a bottle of mulled wine to warm our cockles, some of my favourite cheeses, and a selection of juicy olives. Perhaps I should have brought a bottle of absinthe (Edward Blackmore’s favourite tipple) and a selection of the foods that are mentioned in the book, such as seagull eggs, bladderwrack seaweed, winkles and Maude’s watery stew… Hmmm, after careful consideration, I think we’ll stick with the cheese and wine.

Ah, now usually I can’t drink wine as it makes me ill, but funnily enough mulled wine seems OK and I love the look of that food.

For ambience, let’s light the fire and place my husband’s favourite Georgian pewter candlestick on the side. How about a bit of spooky music playing in the background? Maybe a Halloween playlist? Muse – Supermassive Black Hole? I know we all associate that with Twilight and vampires, but it’s got the right vibe. Then, we can place some lovely fluffy blankets over our knees and get cosy. Although, to be fair, once the mulled wine kicks in, we’ll be super toasty and have a lovely, ruddy glow about our cheeks.

That’s us all cosy then Jenni. But there seems to be several more folk arriving…

To make the evening truly memorable, I’d like to invite all the members of Samson’s Circus of Astonishing Spectacles, if you think you have enough chairs? I’ll warn you, they’re a rowdy rabble. Little Cupid often ends up off his face on cheap gin, Katerina, the Russian fortune teller, can be a tad judgemental, and her common-law husband, Samson the strongman, looks damn scary but he’s soft as butter, really. The Giraffe woman doesn’t say much, but the stable lads will entertain and amuse, if you can cope with the rough and ready language. Perhaps Zella will perform some of her acrobatics, and Hazibub has a great party trick – if you’re not afraid of snakes?

Er, the snakes don’t bother me, but that sounds like quite a crew you have there. Are you sure they’re OK?

Whilst they look quite an intimidating bunch, and have some pretty dubious morals much of the time, they’re like a family. You’ll see how protective they are of each other and, boy, have they led interesting lives. So, as long as I can persuade them not to initiate a mass orgy on your living room rug at the end of the night, I think it would definitely be an evening in to remember!

It’d be pretty memorable either way!

I’m also going to ask Edward Blackmore along, the hero of my story, because he’s an interesting fellow. And I’ve slipped a ouija board into my basket – not that Edward uses them when he contacts the spirits – but then, I’ll let you into a little secret, he’s a total charlatan. Perhaps he can be persuaded to share some of the tricks he uses to make gullible clients believe he’s communicating with their departed loved ones? Mind you, if you drink too much of the absinthe (he’ll doubtless bring a bottle, tucked into his long overcoat) then you may start hallucinating and think you can see spirits regardless.

Um, I think Edward is very welcome…

Thanks so much for staying in with me to tell me all about The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House, Jenni. It sounds absolutely brilliant.

Thank you for inviting me to stay in with you, Linda. I do hope my guests behave and that your readers are intrigued enough to check out my next book. It’s certainly an autumn read and fabulous for a cosy, blanket-snuggled night in.

Jenni x

My absolute pleasure. Now, you pour the mulled wine and I’ll give readers a few more details about The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House as it really does sound brilliant:

The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House

As the bones start to fall, the spirits will rise…

Norfolk, England, 1895: When renowned spiritualist Edward Blackmore receives a desperate message from his cousin Barnabas, begging him to come to the coastal village of Thistlewick Tye, his first thought is to ignore the request. Despite his cousin’s insistence that his wife is possessed by a malevolent spirit, Edward has no time for the man who stole his inheritance.

Lured by the promise of money, along with a genuine concern for Barnabas’s wife – who he’d once loved – he reluctantly travels to at Thistlewick House, only to arrive too late. Emma is dead.

Barnabas suspects there are supernatural forces at play. But Edward is convinced murder is afoot. As he begins to investigate, he finds himself drawn into the lives of those in this isolated and unnerving village, especially the beguiling woman who gathers up the human bones falling from the rapidly eroding cliffs.

Then he discovers that a travelling circus completely disappeared in the area forty years previously and no one is willing to talk about it. Perhaps not everything at Thistlewick Tye is quite what it seems…

A totally gripping and unmissable historical novel from the bestselling author of No. 23, Burlington Square.

Published by Boldwood tomorrow, 11th October 2025, The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House is available for purchase here.

About Jenni Keer

Jenni Keer lives in the glorious Suffolk countryside with her four sons, three cats but just the one husband. She is often frustrated by their inability to appreciate that when she’s staring into space, she’s actually working, and that watching television counts as research. Jenni’s quirky cocktail of romance and history is often mixed with a dash of magical realism and sprinkled with the odd murder or two.

For further information sign up here for Jenni’s (4 times a year) newsletter, find her on Bluesky, Facebook and Instagram or follow her on X @JenniKeer . 

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. 

It was my absolute pleasure to hear Justin Myers speak at the Romance Festival in Manchester a few weeks ago where he was so witty and engaging. Consequently I was thrilled to receive a signed copy of his latest book, The Glorious Dead. 

Published by Renegade on 18th September 2025, The Glorious Dead is available for purchase through the links here.

The Glorious Dead

Laurie Blount, enfant terrible of the West End, the voice of a generation, a shining star.

Also: dead. Very, very dead.

Killed in a car crash in the middle of the night, Laurie exited this world the way he lived his life – dramatically and dangerously.

Laurie ‘s husband Jo, best friend Vivi and goddaughter Rosy must step out from grief ‘s shadow and face life without him. Until rumours of Laurie ‘s unpublished memoir begin to haunt the group. Waspish, wicked and witty, these confessions reveal a side to Laurie nobody really knew . . . or would admit to knowing. But can the words of a dead man be trusted?

Laurie ‘s grieving loved ones are about to discover that comedy and tragedy are the same mistakes, made under different lighting. If Jo, Vivi and Rosy are ever to find peace in the future, they might need to lift the curtain on Laurie ‘s past – as well as their own.

Can a dead man shatter your life one chapter at a time?

My Review of The Glorious Dead

Jo’s husband Laurie has just died in a car crash.

The Glorious Dead was not the book I was expecting to read. I’d anticipated a rather light, gay romcom that served as an entertaining diversion from life. Those lighter elements are present, but The Glorious Dead is so, so much more. 

There’s an intensity to the prose as husband Jo, Laurie’s best friend Vivi and her daughter Rosy, navigate their grief at Laurie’s death. It’s often the most prosaic moments when grief hits them, as it does in real life, so that The Glorious Dead is relatable and moving. With quite a reduced cast of characters too, the story feels intimate and confidential – especially when we have Laurie’s first person thread.

However, as well as surprisingly moving, I also found The Glorious Dead incredibly funny. Justin Myers writes with an acerbic wit that perfectly sums up society. The variety of sentence structure means that sarcasm, irony and humour weave through, balancing Jo’s grief (and, later, his guilt) to perfection. Whilst there are frequent expletives that can often feel misplaced in fiction, in The Glorious Dead there’s a fantastic sense of authorial voice leading the reader through the complexities of life beyond Laurie, making such vocabulary part of the realism and humour. It’s no exaggeration to say I kept thinking of Voltaire’s satirical writing as I read. 

As the plot progresses, themes of friendship, lives after a death, relationships and loyalty swirl through, but there’s also unexpected mystery that elevates the narrative still further into an intriguing and thought-provoking read. And in amongst the pain, there’s hope too so that The Glorious Dead looks into the dark heart of humanity and finds there is also optimism, redemption and positivity.

The characters are fabulous. They are flawed, selfish, deceptive and, to be honest, thoroughly despicable on the whole. And yet they are warm, human and appealing. There’s an irony that the youngest, Rosy, is the most consistent – a kind of Shakespearean Touchstone. She is a wonderful contrast to the others, all of whom I loved and hated in equal measure. Given that the story opens with Laurie’s death in a car accident, I found him rather like a literary car crash. I didn’t always want to read his words, but I simply couldn’t look away! He really is the most appalling, fascinating and vivid character.

The Glorious Dead will entertain you royally. It is a love story. It’s a social commentary. It’s a mystery. It’s also more than the sum of its parts. It will also leave you wondering just how well you know those around you, and perhaps more profoundly, just how well you know yourself. Justin Myers shows us that life is complicated, messy and challenging and we navigate our way through it to the best (or sometimes worst) of our ability.

I thought The Glorious Dead was a remarkable story that delivered far, far more emotion and depth than I expected. I really recommend it. 

About Justin Myers

Justin Myers is a writer and editor from Shipley, Yorkshire, who now lives in London. After years working in journalism, he began his popular, anonymous dating blog The Guyliner in 2010, spent five years as dating and advice columnist in Gay Times and is now a weekly columnist at British GQ. His work has appeared in a number of publications including the Guardian, BuzzFeed and the Irish Times, and his first novel The Last Romeo was published in 2018.

For further information, visit Justin’s website and follow him on X @theguyliner, Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky. 

I had meant to review The Tiny Tycoons: CyberMental by Dolapo Adeyemi and illustrated by Sarah-Leigh Wills some weeks ago, but life (or rather a series of deaths) got the better of me! My thanks go to Ben Cameron For sending me a copy of The Tiny Tycoons: CyberMental. It’s my pleasure to share my review today

Published by Grolightly on 29th May 2025, The Tiny Tycoons: CyberMental is available for purchase in all good bookshops and online including here.

The Tiny Tycoons: CyberMental

WARNING: This is NOT another boring “screen time is bad” lecture!

Meet Max and Mia, siblings who accidentally discovered that spilling glitter glue on a comic book could lead to the greatest adventure ever — transforming from digital CONSUMERS into tech-savvy CREATORS!

In Tycoon Town, these everyday kids (and their robot dog Metallia!) are about to show YOUR 8-12 year old how to:

✅ Turn those “just five more minutes” of screen time into “LOOK WHAT I MADE!” moments

✅ Outsmart sneaky apps that treat kids like products instead of people

✅ Balance their digital diet without giving up the fun stuff

✅ Create amazing tech projects that’ll make friends say “WHOA!”

✅ Join a worldwide crew of kid innovators changing the digital landscape

Packed with laugh-out-loud adventures, hands-on activities, and real stories of young creators, this book doesn’t just talk about digital literacy — it transforms it into an epic quest your child won’t want to put down!

FOR PARENTS & EDUCATORS: This isn’t just another children’s book. It’s a science-backed approach to healthy technology use that kids actually enjoy. Includes a comprehensive guide with conversation starters, implementation strategies, and resources to extend learning beyond the page. 

My Review of The Tiny Tycoons: CyberMental

A book of advice and ideas for young entrepreneurs.

I confess that I really didn’t like The Tiny Tycoons: CyberMental to start with as it felt too ‘American’ for my taste. I also confess that I was completely stupid. I finished the book thinking it was super and I will actually be applying some of its advice (such as time limits on activities such as using social media) in my own life!

Divided into chapters that can be read independently or with a friend or adult, information, ideas and suggestions in The Tiny Tycoons: CyberMental are presented in short accessible chunks so that young readers can absorb each part successfully. With white space for readers to make notes, draw and design, the book gives permission to young creative thinkers to experiment and gain self-confidence. I loved the way Dolapo Adeyemi makes it absolutely clear that set-backs, hiccups and failures are simply part of the learning process. There’s also a helpful glossary of terms, and in common with the text throughout the book, these terms are supported by highly relatable analogies so that understanding is possible for youngsters of all abilities.

Equally inspiring are the illustrations by Sarah-Leigh Wills. The cartoon style in The Tiny Tycoons: CyberMental will appeal to young readers, and whilst it is childlike and child friendly, it isn’t childish or patronising. I also fully appreciated the diversity of ethnicity and the range of cultures and countries presented in the Real Stories and Cool Kids sections because they felt inspiring and inclusive. 

The Tiny Tycoons: CyberMental is an accessible, encouraging book that teaches online and community safety without scaremongering, and which stimulates a child’s imagination and shows them that they have incredible potential. What could be better than that? 

About Dolapo Adeyemi

Dolapo Adeyemi is a London-based serial entrepreneur who grew up in Nigeria with an accountant father and entrepreneurial mother, learning early that knowledge was the ultimate currency. With a degree in Chemical Engineering (and later an MBA at London Business School), she worked in the energy sector, started her own business making solar-powered bags, moved into the world of fashion with OYSBY, her own premium footwear brand, and was a finalist in the Draper’ Footwear Awards and was featured in Oprah magazine and other major media.

 Immersing herself in technology and marketing innovation, and now with two daughters, she had an epiphany: we live in a world where only a privileged few truly understand how systems really work – from digital algorithms to financial markets – and we’re failing our children by not giving them this knowledge early. Furthermore, there is no reason why kids cannot understand the dopamine tricks of the attention economy, the origin, value, and systems of money, recognize cognitive biases, and learn to replace conflict with empathy.

Watching her daughters, now 8 and 10 navigate our digital world, she saw both the incredible potential and the pitfalls of technology in young hands. Tiny Tycoons was born from these everyday parenting moments – from explaining how apps work to discussing why we can’t believe everything we see online.

Fur further information, visit Dolapo’s website, or follow her on X @Dollarkpoh. 

My enormous thanks to Georgia Hester at Harper Collins for sending me a surprise copy of The Second Chance Cinema by Thea Weiss. It’s my pleasure to share my review today.

The Second Chance Cinema will be published by HQ on 7th October 2025 and is available for purchase through the publisher links here. 

The Second Chance Cinema

What if the love of your life could watch the story of your past?

At the end of a fog-covered alley, glitters a glamorous cinema. It’s nearly impossible to find. When Ellie and her fiancé, Drake, stumble upon it during a late-night walk, they’re shocked to discover what’s playing inside the red-velvet auditorium: their formative memories.

Drake fears what the cinema might reveal, but eventually gives in when Ellie insists they return for more viewings. She’s haunted by a night from her past that she doesn’t fully remember. This is her opportunity to piece the story back together. But as the memories displayed on screen inch closer to the present, they realize they’re both keeping secrets from each other.

With their wedding on the horizon, Ellie and Drake must decide if seeing their pasts changes their plans for a future together.

Filled with warmth, hope, and a dash of magic, The Second Chance Cinema is both an enchanting escape and a thought-provoking examination of how our memories shape who we are.

My Review of The Second Chance Cinema

Ellie and Drake are newly engaged.

The Second Chance Cinema is an absolutely wonderful read. I had expected a rather light and entertaining love story, but actually what I found had far greater depth and whilst it was enormously entertaining, it was totally mesmerising and fascinating too, with elements of human understanding that transcended my preconceptions. 

The story is beautifully crafted. I adored the sense of America without it dominating the story. There are painterly descriptions that place the reader at the heart of the action but much of the story isn’t about place and action; it’s about feelings and emotions and this is what makes it so compelling.

The prose thrums with underlying tension as Ellie and Drake watch the stories of their lives playing out on the screen inside the mysterious and magical cinema. I loved too, the traditional structure of teh book with three acts bookended by opening credits with a secret scene at the end. It provides a firm backbone to a story that is quite fluid because Ellie and Drake discover that the past might not be quite as they remembered or have the same importance as they believed – a lesson any one of us could learn. Indeed, I could easily see The Second Chance Cinema as a fantastic television series or film itself. 

Ellie and Drake are multi-faceted and intriguing characters and I found my allegiance vacillating between them as aspects of their lives were uncovered. The reader discovers so much about them as they return to the cinema for the midnight screenings of their lives, but I’d argue that the two discover even more about themselves and one other and its fascinating to see this play out. Their relationship with each other and with their friends and family is complicated, realistic and frequently emotional. I found myself swept up in their lives. However, it is their self-discovery, their sense of guilt and their humanity that makes The Second Chance Cinema such a brilliant read.

The Second Chance Cinema is a messy, realistic, love story but it’s also an utterly absorbing and emotional insight into who we are as people, how our past shapes our present and just how hard it is to let go in order to move on. I loved it. Oh, and if you simply want a diverting love story and wonder just whether there’s a happy ending for Ellie and Drake – well, you’ll just have to read the book – and I suggest you do!

About Thea Weiss

Thea Weiss is a copywriter and screenwriter who previously contributed to the Twilight franchise. She lives in Denver with her husband, daughter, and dachshund–and loves going to the movies when she’s not writing. The Second Chance Cinema is her first novel. 

For further information, visit Thea’s website or follow her on Instagram.