Archive | June 2021

Yours Cheerfully by A.J. Pearce

Jun24

A United Front

Yours Cheerfully by A.J.Pearce is the most charming historical novel and the second book in the Dear Mrs Bird series. I recommend reading book one first as the second book starts where Dear Mrs Bird ended in 1941 and is a continuation.

The war is at its height. As the men go off to fight, the women must step into their factory roles. The women are all keen to do their bit but they face the problem of childcare. For war widows the situation is dire, there were no widows pensions, if they didn’t work, they couldn’t eat.

In spite of the hardships the women pull together to campaign for government childcare. There is a wonderful camaraderie. Emmy, whom we met in book one, is rapidly establishing herself as a serious journalist with a social conscience.

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Utterly Brilliant My Life’s Journey by Timmy Mallett

Jun22

You Me

Utterly Brilliant My Life’s Journey by Timmy Mallett is an utterly brilliant book about Timmy Mallett’s pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago in memory of his brother Martin.

This book is a powerful read as we learn not only about the sights along the way but also life lessons. The Camino de Santiago is a physical, cultural, historical and spiritual journey undertaken by many pilgrims each year, with some making repeat journeys.

Timmy Mallett makes his journey by e-bike, leaving markers in tribute to his brother Martin along the way. Using the map at the front of the book and the app Three Little Words, the markers are available for all to find.

Martin was born with Down’s Syndrome and not expected to make it far into adulthood. He actually made it the sixty four years and seven months. Timmy Mallett speaks fondly of his brother who loved life and lived loved. “Martin… had love in abundance… We sometimes wondered if that extra chromosome… is an extra chromosome of love.”

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Doom Watch by David Burnell

Jun22

Welcome To Village Life

Doom Watch by David Burnell is a contemporary crime novel set in Padstow. It is the first book in A Cornish Conundrum series.

Following a stag night, a torso is uncovered. It is up to the local and county police, and the reader to uncover the identity of the victim and the perpetrator.

A normally sleepy village reveals some surprising activities.

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Right To Kill by John Barlow

Jun21

Vigilante Or Serial Killer?

Right To Kill by John Barlow is a marvellous contemporary murder suspense that had me glued and guessing.

The story opens with murder and we ‘hear’ the perpetrators voice for the first time. Periodically throughout their voice returns, but who is it?

The police forces work together to solve the crimes. Social media is not always your friend and threatens to derail. At other times it is a useful tool.

It soon becomes apparent that there may be a vigilante on the loose. Public opinion is divided but many prefer this thought to that of a serial killer.

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