Archive | February 2024

The Last Day In Paris by Suzanne Kelman

Feb29

Keep The Fires Burning

The Last Day In Paris by Suzanne Kelman is a marvellous dual timeline novel that I loved. It is the first book in The Paris Sisters series which promises to be fantastic.

The novel is set in present day and Paris during World War II. We ‘see’ the Nazis collecting and collating works of art to be shipped back to Germany. These treasures are more than their canvases and their worth, they are the very heart of the French people. Art speaks to souls. We witness the lengths some will go in order to protect it.

There are those who want to preserve the art for future generations to enjoy. In contrast, we see black marketeers who merely want the art for personal wealth. These unscrupulous people come in some surprising forms.

We follow a family of three generations. They are strongly bonded with each other and also have a bond with a painting done by their father. This is a microcosm for the value placed on art by the French people as a whole.

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Light In The Dark by Lin Stepp

Feb28

The Romeo & Juliet Effect

Light In The Dark by Lin Stepp is a most delightful contemporary Christian novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. It is the third book in The Lighthouse Sisters but can be read as a stand-alone.

Once more it is an absolute pleasure to meet up with familiar faces. It feels as if we are coming home. All the characters are wonderfully drawn, giving out an air of warmth and love. Their interactions are a delight to witness. We see old friendships being rekindled and new ones being ignited.

The community is close knit and caring. Many families have lived in the area for generations. Those who move away, always feel the pull to return home. This reminds the reader of our relationships with God. If we wander away, we can feel the longing to return to His heart.

Prayer is important. It is a vital lifeline to God, as necessary as breathing. “I believe prayers are powerful. I wouldn’t mind a little protection coverage.” A character recognizes her need for prayer.

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The Magic Faraway Tree: A Christmas Adventure by Jacqueline Wilson

Feb27

Re-visiting My Childhood

The Magic Faraway Tree: A Christmas Adventure by Jacqueline Wilson is a most charming novel that will appeal to everyone aged eight years and over.

Once more Jacqueline Wilson has transported the adult reader back to their childhood, whilst simultaneously introducing the next generation to the magic that is the Faraway Tree. There is the timeless appeal of Moonface, Silky, the Angry Pixie etc.

The reader joins the characters for a festive fayre as we delight in a winter wonderland, walking on fresh snowfall, just perfect for a new adventure. This is the second book in the series.

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The Magic Faraway Tree: A New Adventure by Jacqueline Wilson

Feb27

Enchanting

The Magic Faraway Tree: A New Adventure by Jacqueline Wilson is positively delightful. It is perfect for children ages eight years and over.

This book is also an absolute delight for adults who grew up reading The Faraway Tree novels by Enid Blyton. They were my favourites and I still have my copies now.

Jacqueline Wilson has kept the magic alive. She writes in a style very reminiscent of the originals. All the familiar characters are there – Moonface, Silky, Dame Washalot etc. This book transported me back through the years to my childhood. Fifty years on, and I still want to believe that somewhere out there, there is the Faraway Tree! This book is enchanting and I loved it.

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