The Five People You meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom

Author: Mitch Albom
ISBN: 0751536822
Genre: general Fiction
Pages: 231
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Sphere

"From the author of the phenomenal number one bestseller TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE, comes this enchanting, beautifully written novel that explores a mystery only heaven can unfold. Eddie is a grizzled war veteran who feels trapped in the toil of his father before him, fixing rides at a seaside amusement park. Then he dies in a tragic accident, trying to save a little girl from a falling cart. He awakens in the afterlife, where he learns that heaven is not a lush Garden of Eden, but a place where your earthly life is explained to you by five people who were in it. These people may have been loved ones or distant strangers. Yet each of them changed your path forever. As the story builds to its stunning conclusion, Eddie desperately seeks redemption in the still-unknown last act of his life. Was it a heroic success or a devastating failure? The answer is as magical and inspirational as a glimpse of heaven itself."

With the recent passing of my father, this is one book I 'needed' to read. I was gob smacked my eldest son even thought about buying me this book for xmas, let alone actually surprising me with it on xmas day.

This was a wonderful little book, with a lot of meaning to it. It helps you to understand why certain things happen to you in life, and how we are all connected.

This book is basically about a man who dies, and is met by five people, who in some way affected how he lived his life. Some are family while others are strangers. I really can't go on to tell you more, as you have to read it for yourselves. All I can say is, I found the book left me wanting more. I wish the book had been bigger so I could go on reading. It's a light read and some people would finish it in a day.

It's a very comforting read and one worth having in your book pile to be read.

Katharine The Virgin Widow by Jean Plaidy.

Author: Jean Plaidy
ISBN: 0-09-949314-4
Genre:Historical Fiction.
Pages:310
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Arrow


"Widowed within months of her marriage to the frail Prince of Wales, Arthur Tudor, Katharine of Aragon's virginity is the subject of much speculation. A pawn between the Spanish and English monarchies, the question of whether her marriage to the Prince was ever consummated decides both her fate, and England's. Her life has become a far cry from what she knew as an Infanta of Spain and Princess of Wales. But in the wings awaits Henry, Arthur's younger, more handsome brother, the future King of England and her only escape from poverty. He alone has the power to restore her position, but at what sacrifice?"

I had wanted this book for ages, and so when I got it I was thrilled! Queen Katherine of Aragon was my favourite Queen of the Tudors. I've only ever read one other book of Jean Plaidy's Saint Thomas's Eve. I think I'm coming to a decision that Jean Plaidy isn't one of my favourite authors, as although I enjoyed this novel for the historical content. I didn't connect with any of the characters, and I didn't feel a part of the book. I just didn't get a sense of the surroundings or any emotion. I also didn't like the fact that Katharine's marriage with Arthur was rushed, whereas with Philippa Gregory's The Constant Princess, Philippa turned it into a beautiful love story, and I loved that.

I wanted a little bit more of detail in Jean Plaidy's book, but I felt like she was skimming through it, and not delving deep into the character and bringing them alive.
It's been mentioned to me before that Jean Plaidy's books are more like History lessons, and I have to agree. Some people love her books, but for me I much prefer Philippa Gregory, as I feel Philippa brings her characters alive. I'm not saying Jean Plaidy was a rubbish writer, just that her books aren't for me.

My rating, OK if you want a book that isn't exciting but, you want to read for the historical facts.

Sorry to 'Something About Me Challenge'

I just wanted to post this in case anyone from the 'Something About Me Challenge' comes along to wonder why I haven't posted up any reviews? Since starting work in September I don't read as much as I used to now, and to be honest I've lost the motivation to try and reads loads. I'm still reading but, a not as much as I used to. I still plan to read the books I picked in the Challenge, but only when I'm ready and feel drawn to read them. I know I won't get them read by December. Sorry....

The Vampire Lestat by Anne Rice.

Author: Anne Rice
ISBN: 0-7088-3153-2
Genre: Fiction/Horror
Pages:599
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Warner Books


"'Ah, the taste and feel of blood when all passion and greed is sharpened in that one desire!' Lestat: a vampire - but very much not the conventional undead, for Lestat is the truly alive. Lestat is vivid, ecstatic, stagestruck, and in his extravagant story he plunges from the lasciviousness of eighteenth-century Paris to the demonic Egypt of prehistory; from fin-de-siecle New Orleans to the frenetic twentieth-century world of rock superstardom - as, pursued by the living and the dead, he searches across time for the secret of his own dark immortality."

After reading Interview with the Vampire, I was really looking forward to reading the second in this series. The Vampire Lestat is, Lestat's story, his side of events that took place and how he became a vampire. This book was really fun to read, it was gripping in places and emotional. I've become really fond of Lestat, whereas, in Interview with the vampire, from Louis point of view he's a unkind.

Reading this book I could visualise easily the scenery and events taking place, I loved reading how becoming a vampire affected him, and I really liked reading about his relationship with Gabrielle. I'm really looking forward to the next installment which is The Queen of the Damned.

A really good read!

9/10

Poll Results

From the last Poll I did, it seems most people re-read their books. That's pretty cool!
After all, many of us re-watch movies, so why not re-read a book?

The Other Eden By Sarah Bryant.

Author: Sarah Bryant
ISBN: 978-1-905005-11-6
Genre: Fiction
Pages:459
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Snowbooks


"Devastated by the death of the beloved grandfather who raised her, precocious young pianist Eleanor Rose heeds the words of the unknown woman in her dream. Leaving the security of her privileged life in Boston, she heads for Eden's Meadow, a Louisiana estate which she has never seen, and which has been closed since her grandmother died there mysteriously twenty-five years earlier. She longs for a tranquil haven, in which to nurse her grief and concentrate on her music, and at first Eden's Meadow seems to be just that. But Eleanor's shocking discovery of a forgotten painting, the timely arrival of a letter from a man who seems to hold the answers to the questions it raises, and her growing love for an enigmatic Russian musician draw her into a labyrinth of past and present deception, which ultimately threatens her sanity and her very life."


I was very kindly sent this book for 'free' by Snowbooks, and as soon as it came through the post, I began reading it. I loved the cover of this book and knew I was in for a treat.

It's the first time I have read a novel like this. I am a big fan of Historical fiction, but I have never read a novel that contained information on Classical music. I'm not really even a fan of Classical music and yet, I found myself completely taken in with this book.

The author described the surroundings with a lot of detail and I was taken in by the story, I felt as though I was there with them, and I was living Eleanor's life with her, going through each trial in trying to solve her Mothers past. In the chapters when Alexander and Eleanor played the Piano together and also at other times on their own, I was taken in by this and I was able to visualise the effect the music had on them, it seemed to reach out to me. This was one of my most favourite parts of the book. I'm now considering listening to some Classical music. See what this novel has done to me! ;)

I could go on to describe lots more about this book, both Eve and Elizabeth play an important part in this novel, but to go on would only give the plot away and possibly ruin it for others.

For me this book was a beautiful love story that I didn't want to end, but it was also sad. If you like novels that contain history, hauntings, suspense and romance, then this book is for you.

This is one of the best books I have read this year. I will definitely be reading more by this author.

Wicked by Gregory Maguire

Author: Gregory Maguire
ISBN: 0-7553-3160-5
Genre: Fiction
Pages:495
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Review


"An astonishingly rich re-creation of the land of Oz, this book retells the story of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, who wasn't so wicked after all. Taking readers past the yellow brick road and into a phantasmagoric world rich with imagination and allegory, Gregory Maguire just might change the reputation of one of the most sinister characters in literature."


I borrowed this book from my sis, after she had read it and loved it. I'd seen some other people I know have read it too, so I wanted to check it out. It's the first book I've read from this author.
This is one book I will not allow my sis to sell at one of her boot sales, it has to stay on her book shelf!!!! LOL

As you can tell I loved this book. I wasn't quite sure what to expect at first? I knew it was about The Wicked Witch of the West from the movie The Wizard of Oz, we all loved so much as children. As I read the book I began to fall in love with Elphaba, and I loved reading about every minute of her life in this novel. I also became really fond of Fiyero, Glinda, Nanny and Doctor Dillamond. Basically I loved them all really! Except the Wizard........ Hmmmm.

This novel is different to the movie, and it is really a book for adults, and is a tale from the side of: The Wicked Witch of the West. For me this book was a light, enjoyable, cosy read. It was a book that I loved snuggling up to on my bed or in the bath to read. I just loved entering their world. However, I know that some people have said it wasn't a light read for them as it contained political issues (personally I hate politics in real life). I guess this is where we all differ, and what a boring place it would be if we all agreed on everything.

There wasn't a boring moment in this book, it was exciting, emotionally moving and funny.
I haven't seen the Musical, may be one day I will?

So to sum this book up, it was and is.. EXCELLENT!
I'll be reading more from this author! ;)

Holy Fools by Joanne Harris

Author: Joanne Harris
ISBN: 0-552-77001-9
Genre: Fiction
Pages:383
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Black Swan


"Set in seventeenth-century France against a backdrop of witch trials, regicide and religious frenzy, this is the story of Juliette, one-time actress and rope-dancer. Forced by circumstance to seek refuge with Fleur, her young daughter, in the remote abbey of Sainte Marie-de-la-Mer, Juliette reinvents herself as Soeur Auguste under the tutelage of the kindly Abbess. But times are changing: the murder of Henri IV becomes the catalyst for massive upheaval in France. A new appointment is made, and Juliette's new life begins to unravel. For the new Abbess is Isabelle, the eleven-year-old child of a corrupt, noble family. Worse, Isabelle has brought with her a ghost from Juliette's past, masquerading as a cleric, a man she has every reason to fear..."

Being a Joanne Harris fan, I was really looking forward to reading this book. One of the things I like in her books is she writes about paganism. She is my most favourite author of pagan fiction. However, this is not one of my favourite books.

I liked the main character Juliette, I felt for her at times and was enjoying her story. I felt like I could connect with her and visualise what was going on around her. I really liked her.

Lemerle, I didn't connect with. I found his part in the story interesting and wanted to read more, but he didn't 'grab' me.

The abby with the other Nuns, I didn't really feel I could connect with. I found this part of the story hard to get into.

Basically the story is set in the seventeenth century when witch trials were taking place. Juliette who is part of a traveling circus, is forced to take cover in an Abby with her daughter Fleur. Lemerle a man, from her past turns up and he takes Fleur away from her mother. Juliette's struggle to get her daughter back begins.

I'm glad I read this book, there were times I felt it was boring in places and hard to get into, and so I didn't feel like carrying on with it. But, there was something there that made me want to pick the book up to find out more. So I kept with it.

So to sum it up, it was an OK read. Not one of my favourites. One that will sit on my shelf till I read it again. I sort of feel like this is the sort of book I'd enjoy more the second time around.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens (Audio)

A Christmas Carol

"A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, a time-honored classic, follows Ebenezer Scrooge's tranformation from a selfish and bitter man to a generous benefactor after he is visited by a series of ghosts.Scrooge, having gone to sleep, is first visited in his sleep by the Ghost of Christmas Past, a phantom who enkindles in him regret of his former lack of compassion. The Ghost of Christmas Present shows Scrooge Christmas as it would unfold the next day, and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come leads Scrooge through a series of scenes involving an unsympathetic creditor who turns out to be Scrooge himself. A changed man, Scrooge shares his newfound Christmas spirit, much to the wonder of others, and in the years that follow he honors Christmas with all his heart."

This is my second Audio Book, and I have to say I really did enjoy it. I don't have much experience with narrators having heard just two audio books, so I'm not sure what is supposed to be good and what isn't in an narrator? The narrator with this audio book, was good I thought. He used different voices for each character, although at times I wanted to laugh at some of them. I just thought a couple of the voices he did were funny, as they seemed to change accent too. However, that didn't ruin it for me, as I really enjoyed listening.

I hadn't read A Christmas Carol before, although I've seen different version of the movie. A Christmas Carol is my most favourite Christmas movie. So when I saw this as an audio book, I downloaded it, put it onto my MP3 player and began listening when I was cooking dinner or doing the gardening. I enjoyed every minute of it, I was able to visualise what was being read, and I felt a part of the book. Listening to this also got me a bit emotional, as I went through each journey with Scrooge. When some lines were said like when the Spirit of Christmas Present says to Scrooge about tiny Tim.;

``If these shadows remain unaltered by the Future, none other of my race,'' returned the Ghost, ``will find him here. What then? If he be like to die, he had better do it, and decrease the surplus population.''

Scrooge hung his head to hear his wn words quoted by the Spirit, and was overcome with penitence and grief.

This really got me choked. And also after he has been visited by all three Spirits, and wakes up on Christmas day, a changed man, that got me emotional too.

Over all, I loved this audio book, it was a free download and the quality of the sound was brilliant! There are some free audio books out there on the net, where the sound quality is appalling. But it just goes to show that if you search, you can find some great free audio books to start of with. I'm definitely a fan of them now and will hunt some down in my shops soon.

Embraced by the Light by Bettie J Eadie

Author: Bettie J Eadie
ISBN: 9781882723003
Genre: Spiritual, Non Fiction
Pages:147
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Gold Leaf Press

I got this book as it was recommend to me, as I am very interested in Near death Experiences.
I was told it was a wonderful book and so I wanted to find out for myself.
It took me 3 days to read this book, I was hooked from the first page, to the last and felt sad when I got to the last page as I wanted the book to go on and on...

It is about a lady, Betty J. Eadie, who after having an operation to have a hysterectomy she died and had the most wondeful experience she never believed could happen.
She had a journey in the spirit realm, one she will never forget.
She met Jesus and learnt many things about earth and who we are.
If you are interested in Near Death Experiences, I highly recommend this book.

It is quite a small book, with 20 chapters which hold so much information that may change your life!

How to catch Fairies by Gilly Sergiev

Author: Gilly Sergiev
ISBN: 1-84181-164-5
Genre: Spiritual
Pages:128
Format: Hardback
Publisher: GODSFIELD

This is a beautiful hard back book, with 128 pages within it.

This is one of my favourite books I own, fairies are a subject that are close to my heart and this book contains many beuatiful pictures inside.

The Book starts of with an introduction to faeries and Gilly's experience with them, how she began to see and feel their presence and the effect they have had on her life. She then carries on with explanations of what faerie land is.

Merlin, Morag Le Fay, The Green man and The fisher king are mentioned in here. With information on what Faerie rings, faerie food, and fey festivals also packed with different types of faerie's and how you can catch them. Not too sure I want to catch a faerie myself, I'd rather want one to come to me. ;)

Over all, this is an informative book for those interested in faeries, with many beautiful pictures. I would recommend to everybody who are interested in the Fae. Children will love it too.

Simply Reiki written by Lynne and David Evans

Author: Lynn & David Evans
ISBN: 0-646-28137-2
Genre:Self Help, Spiritual
Pages:88
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Mountains Reflections



This book looks very pretty on the outside, it has a sky blue back ground and the title of the book is in yellow, the colours really do complement each other. The title of the book is called Simply Reiki written by Lynne and David Evans.

It is about the Usui system of Natural Healing. There are 11 Chapter's in this book; the first take's you through how Lynne and David Evans discovered Reiki. It tells the story of how Lynne was an active person who used to take part in competing in Triathlon's and then feel ill with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome ( M.E)

She suffered from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and they discovered Reiki in which she was able to heal herself with the help of David and friend's. She no longer suffers from chronic fatigue syndrome.

The book explains what Reiki is and goes into detail about Reiki, explaining what it feel's like to receive Reiki and who can become a Reiki channel and how Reiki differs from other form's of spiritual healing etc.

It goes on to tell the story of how Dr Mikao Usui re-discovered Reiki and goes on to talk about his successor's in Reiki.
Dr Chujiro Hayashi and Hawayo Takata. They explain how to use Reiki, the basic treatment, precaution's, self treatment and goes on to explain Meditation and Auric healing.

There is a chapter on balancing the Chakras and when to know to do this, although it does explain you cannot learn how to balance the Chakras from this book. Lynne and David explain that you need to be shown by someone with experience, a Reiki master. They go on to explain what each Chakra is used for.

Lynne and David tell of the Reiki precept's....Just for today do not worry, do not anger, honour your parent's teacher's and elder's, earn your living honestly, and show gratitude to every living thing.
They go into detail with this explaining what each one mean's.

The last chapter of this book is about Lynne and David's students and people that were just attuned to Reiki, who experienced miracles. I loved reading this chapter and how these people were able to heal others and the satisfaction they experienced with being able to help people.

Over all I love this book, I have read it and am reading it again. It's one of those book's you just can't put down, you have to read over and over again, it make's you feel closer to Reiki.

It explained Reiki very well and helped me to understand it so much more. For anyone just starting to learn about Reiki and for anyone who is interested about finding out about Reiki. I would highly recommend this book.

Lynne and David found my review on another site a few years ago, and they emailed me to say thank you. I was over the moon when they did.

LIFE AFTER DEATH by by Neville Randle

I wrote this review a few years ago. There's no picture of the book as I can't find it anywhere in the net or on Amazon play etc....

Author: Neville Randle
ISBN: N/A
Genre: Non Fiction
Pages:N/A
Format: Paperback
Publisher: N/A

The book that shatters every myth about mortality.

I borrowed this book of my sister, as I am interested about life after death. It is something I have been interested in for a while now.

This book takes you into conversations mediums George Wood and Betty Greene had with spirits from the other side. Voices of the spirits were recorded onto tape. Some of the famous are claimed to have come through from the other side sharing their experiences with them. From Oscar Wilde, Cosmo Gordon Lang, former Archbishop of Canterbury, Mahatma Gandhi are a few.

This book covered what happens to our spirits as we die, where we go and what we do on the other side. How we meet our favourite pets again and how we meet our loved one. It also talks about how we can still eat and wear clothes as when we first pass over, we still feel we need these things but eventually realise they are earthly things and we don’t need them in the spirit world. Houses are said to be solid, there are colleges to go and study, theatres and more……. There is a lot to this book, however I felt there were some useless conversations in here, they seemed to go over the same thing again and again which got quite boring. But saying that I am pleased I read it as it did answer some questions for me and for anyone interested in life after death, then this book is good as a starter.

Reiki Healing and Harmony Through The Hands by Tanmaya Honervogt

I wrote this review a few years ago.

Author: Tanmaya Honervogt ~ Reiki Master/Teacher.
ISBN: 1-85675-039-6
Genre: Self Help, Spiritual
Pages:144
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Gaia

This is a fairly large book with in total a 143 pages.
This book starts off with an explanation about the book and then goes into an introduction to Reiki.

In the first chapter Tanmaya explains her path with Reiki and how she became a Master/Teacher. Telling her story about how Reiki found her and how it has affected her life, also she says where she teaches Reiki now.

Chapter Two is about the Meaning of Reiki.
It goes into detail what Reiki is, how we can use Reiki and what Reiki does, also how Reiki effects our emotions.
It explains the Chakra’s and how Reiki flows through the practitioner into the client.

Chapter Three tells the history of reiki.

Chapter Four explains the Reiki degrees.
Going into detail about what each degree involves, also giving simple breathing exercises to do for sleep and to energize your body.

Chapter Five explains Reiki treatments.
How to give self treatments and how to treat others, also explains meditations, how to harmonize the Chakras and how each Chakra affects our bodies. There is a section that shows you an exercise how to ground.

Chapter Six talks about Reiki in everyday Life.
For example giving Reiki to plants and animals. I know this myself that animals like Reiki as I give Reiki to my friends Cats and they love it.
There is a section explaining First aid using Reiki, going into detail on many situations like, Fear, insect bites, broken bones, burns and sprains, Heart attack and so on…..
This chapter also explains Reiki for stress and emotions, it includes another meditation and goes to explain how to cleanse your room, giving Reiki to food, using Reiki in meditation, how to protect yourself, and many ways how to use Reiki in everyday life, there is so much to this chapter I could go on and on…

Chapter seven is about healing and illness.
This chapter talks about what happens when we are ill and low, how it affects our mental state etc. And includes more meditations.

Chapter Eight is about Reiki practitioners experiences with Reiki, how it has affected their lives and how they have been able to treat themselves, others and animals.

I found this book to be very detailed about Reiki and the Usui system.
It is a wonderful and addictive book to read, I didn’t want to put it down. There are many beautiful pictures in this book, absolutely stunning pictures that can take your breath away. I felt that just about every issue was covered in this book except the Reiki Symbols, they are sacred, so I can understand why they are not listed in here.
In my opinion it is a wonderful book, well worth the money.

Two Books From Now On!

Usually I only read one book at a time, but after reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, I became restless and couldn't choose a book. I was having headaches and was becoming stressed because I wasn't enjoying my books. It was like after all the hype and that brilliant book, I came back down to earth with a bump!

I had to hide a majority of my books, as they've become 'just' books now. I've begun to take them for granted. Sitting on my shelf waiting to be read. I've got bored looking at them. I'm not a fast reader, if I try to be I end up skimming the pages without taking the story in. Then I ask myself why am I trying to read fast? It doesn't matter if I don't complete the 50 book challenge, it doesn't matter if it takes me 3, 4, 5 days or a week or more to read, even though I get impatient at times as I just want to read read read!!!!

What matters is that I am 'enjoying' reading. I love my books and I love reading, and this is how I want to keep it, as when you read, you build a relationship with the book, it's like you go through so many emotions and on a journey together. Some books you get on with, others you don't, it's a bit like people lol.

So, I did something different, I chose two books to read this time, and I'm really enjoying them. When I feel like I've read enough of one book, I pick the other one up. It may take me longer to finish a book this way but, I don't care. I finally have my inspiration for books back, yay!

The Magic Shop by H. G. Wells (Audio Book)

Thought Audio.com

"This is a charming tale from H.G. Wells about a young boy named Gip who visits a magic shop for his birthday with his father. But this is not just any magic shop – the shopkeeper insists that this is a genuine magic shop. The story is an entertaining adventure as Gip, like any young boy of his age, experiences the pure enjoyment of true magic while his skeptical father grapples with having to draw the line between slight of hand and genuine magic"


I listened to my first Audio Book, today. I searched on the net for some 'free' ones and found a few sites with them. So I downloaded The Magic Shop by H.G. Wells, narrated by Michael Scott.

I wasn't sure what sort of book it was and realised it was a child's book, this didn't put me off as I like reading Young authors books anyway. It was really quite charming. It's about how Gip goes to a magic shop with his father for his birthday, and strange magical things happen. It's a short story and only last half an hour. So it's not the sort of book I would be drawn into, with it being so short and also aimed at young children. I'm glad I listened to it though, it was good cooking dinner and being told a story at the same time. The narrator is American and I enjoyed listening to him tell this story. I wouldn't say it was the best but being my first I am sure to find better ones. I want to look out for some English ones, and audio books that I can get gripped with, ones that have emotion and that can make you feel as though you are there.


It is my first H.G. Wells book and I would look for some more. I think if my 11year old son Joe, would like to listen to this.

Bit of a Pickle!

I've been in a bit of a Pickle today. I ended up putting IT by Stephen King away. The text is so small it strains my eyes and I'm finding it hard to get 'into' the book. So I've put it away for when I am in the mood to read it. I hate forcing myself to read a book, so rarely do.

Then I went and picked up To Kill A Mocking Bird by Harper Lee, and ended up putting that back on the shelf, and then picked up and put back Little Women by Louisa M Alcott. Both are part of the 'Something About Me Challenge', but I don't feel drawn to reading them atm.

So I've decided to read Two books, which I'll take my time with, Garth Nix - Mister Monday, after Marg from Reading Adventures gave it a good review & Joanne Harris - Holy Fools. So far I'm enjoying them. I don't usually read two books at the same time, but feel like doing something different.

I'm Rockin!

Tanzanite, awarded me the Rocking Girl award. I haven't won an award before. So thank you hun!
I liked what she said about my blog and it's true I didn't read much as a child. As an adult my sister would lend me the odd book (as I wasn't into reading like she was) and I read a couple (The Magic Cottage by James Herbert & Dirty weekend Can't remember the author), then as my kids grew they were into reading big time! I often wished I enjoyed reading like they did. I started off with Spiritual and self help books until I met some friends online who often chatted about fiction, they sounded like they were having loads of fun and felt like I was missing out. So I decided to have a go, and I picked up Flowers in the Attic by Virginia Andrews and it went from there. Since then I've been addicted to reading fiction, and I'm so enjoying myself.

OK now I'm supposed to award four people the Rockin Girl Award. They go to:

Tanzanite's Shelf and stuff
I know I'm handing one back to her and the reason for this is, I visit her blog a lot. I'm always interested in what she has to say in her reviews. It's one of my main favourites.

Confessions of a Book Addict
I love this blog and it's one of the first I always check. Clare reads pretty fast (so I know I can come here for good recommendations before I set out to find a book) and she is into genre's I like too. We both love Tudor fiction. Also she's a lovely person so these are the reasons why have awarded her.

My Front Room
This one goes to my my sis Jess, she is fairly new to blogging but is having loads of fun. I love reading her posts on her blog about her life and her daughter Sophie. She has also put some beautiful pic's on her blog of nature. I love that she takes photo's and hopes she shares more.

Things Mean A Lot
This seems to be a very popular blog and I have to admit, I love going there myself. I'm always interested to read the reviews this person has done. I also love the way the blog is set out. it looks so calming and pretty. It's one of my favourites.

Harry Potter and the Deathy Hallows by J.K Rowling

Author: J.K Rowling
ISBN: 978-0-7475-9105-4
Genre: Fantasy Fiction
Pages:607
Format: Hardback
Publisher: Bloomsbury

"'His hand closed automatically around the fake Horcrux, but in spite of everything, in spite of the dark and twisting path he saw stretching ahead for himself, in spite of the final meeting with Voldemort he knew must come, whether in a month, in a year, or in ten, he felt his heart lift at the thought that there was still one last golden day of peace left to enjoy with Ron and Hermione.' With these words "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" draws to a close."

I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book, but I was not one of the many that was at the shops at 12am to get it! LOL. I got mine at 8:30am Saturday morning.

Having read most of the other books (I just have Chamber of secrets to read, but have seen all the movies) I was so excited to read this book, I wanted to know: Was Snape really bad? Did Dumbledore really die? Was Harry going to die?

Well all was answered in this book, as I was half way through I was making lots of guesses and had guessed the correct answer about Harry, although at the time I wasn't sure? Hubby had cheated by looking up on the net the morning it came out; the plot of the book, and loved knowing that he knew and I didn't! LOL. Men really! doh!

Anyway, I can say that I totally enjoyed this book! I loved every minute of it. I never found a dull moment and found it was fast paced. It was easy to read and I love J.K Rowling!!!
I've seen some reviews slating the book, I'm wondering why? I guess some people really wanted the worst to happen in the book and evil to prevail!! Hmm?

I have loved the Harry potter books, J.K Rowling gave us Harry Potter Hermione & Ron, Dumbledore, Snape, Sirius, amongst other great characters.
This book I felt tied everything up nicely, as I read the book I once again fell in love with the characters. I felt like I was there with them, it was easy to visualize the surroundings and people and events that were taking place. There are some surprises in the book, people who die, events that take place etc.. I won't go on about that as I don't want to spoil it for those who haven't read it yet. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I was laughing, I was totally drawn in and three quarters through the book I was in tears! I found the last quarter of the book very emotional.
I so felt for Harry in this book, I wanted to reach out to him.

I can't say there was anything in this book I didn't like. Because I loved all of it. I think J.K Rowling is an amazing writer, she has given children and adults the story of Harry Potter (which will be passed down for generations to come), and I can't wait to read her next project.

Fantastic!

Something About Me Challenge

I've chosen my books to read for the Something About Me Challenge
It was really hard choosing!



Little Women by Louisa May Alcott (Alyson's) This is a book I've wanted to read for a while now. I've not seen the movie, so I'm not sure what to expect?

To Kill a Mocking Bird by Harper Lee (Janet's) I tried to read this a couple of years ago, but gave up. I wasn't enjoying it but have decided to give this another go. I've been known to hate books and then like them when I re-read them.

The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova (from a few peoples lists) This is a book which has had mixed reviews, I'm kind of worried about reading this as some people say it's hard going. But I like Historical and Vampire novels so I'm going to try this one.

Anne Frank: Diary of a young girl (Pattie's) This book I've always wanted to read, I heard much about it due to history in the news etc. I'd be honoured to read this book by such a brave and inspiring little girl.

I, Elizabeth by Rosalind Miles (Soleil's) I've chosen this one because I love historical novels and anything to do with the Tudors.

Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz (JMC's) This book has some good reviews on Amazon. I've never tried anything from this author, so have decided to give it ago.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith (Becky's) This is a book I've seen recommended on some blogs, so this is why I chose this book. I like the title of this book.

Magical Unicorns Oracle cards and Book by Doreen Virtue

Author: Doreen Virtue
ISBN: 6-56629-00311-5
Genre: Self help
Pages:85
cards: 44
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Hay House

"With the Magical Unicorn Oracle Cards deck, you can receive messages and guidance related to your present life, your future, and your spiritual path. Suitable for adults and children of all ages, each card features a beautiful unicorn painting and a life-affirming message. The enclosed easy to follow guidebook allows you to instantly give accurate readings to yourself and others. Let these cards by Doreen Virtue, the creator of the Healing with the Angels Oracle cards deck as well as many others, take you to the magical and enchanting world of the unicorns."

Being someone who loves Oracle decks and tarot, I got this deck for my birthday. This is a really stunning set of Unicorns images. This deck also comes with a guide book on how to read the cards and each card comes with an illustrated message within the book. Each message is inspirational and easy to read. It's meant for both adults and children.

I love this deck of cards, even if you don't want to do yourself a reading or read the book, just looking at the stunning pictures is wonderful. They really are beautiful. I've added some pictures of my favourites so you can see.

For anyone who likes fantasy, unicorns and oracle cards I recommend these.

The Power of Kabbalah by Yehuda Berg

Author: Yehuda Berg
ISBN: 0-340-82668-1
Genre: Non Fiction
Pages:255
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Hodder Mobius

"Previously shrouded in secrecy, its teachings were passed down orally from generation to generation to only an elite few. Now, Rabbi Yehuda Berg has created a user's manual for today's world, in which its wisdom is conveyed in a practical form. In this book, these secret teachings are brought to bear on the real world issues faced by us every day - in our careers, with family and friends and in our innermost personal thoughts. Rabbi Yehuda Berg sets out a practical collection of principles and instructions for improving our lives, helping us to get where we really want to be emotionally, spiritually, financially and creatively in all aspects of life."


I got this book a few years ago, as I became interested in the teachings of Kabbalah. Being someone who doesn't follow any specific religion, I wanted to find out what it's all about, and I'm open to all beliefs. I found this book really interesting and it did answer some questions for me. Some parts I found a bit heavy, but it was very enjoyable to read and mind provoking. It's one of those books you go back to for inspiration. It has helped me on my 'spiritual' path, and I do go along with some of it's beliefs. This little book however, cannot tell you everything about Kabbalah, but it does give you a good idea. So I will be on search for more books of this subject.

I sum this book up as a good spiritual read for those in search of some answers, and those interested in this religion.

The Boleyn Inheritance by Philippa Gregory

Author: Philippa Gregory
ISBN: 978-0-00-719033-1
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 518
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Harper.


"The year is 1539 and the court of Henry VIII is increasingly fearful at the moods of the ageing sick king. With only a baby in the cradle for an heir, Henry has to take another wife and the dangerous prize of the crown of England is won by Anne of Cleves. She has her own good reasons for agreeing to marry a man old enough to be her father, in a country where to her both language and habits are foreign. Although fascinated by the glamour of her new surroundings, she senses a trap closing around her. Katherine is confident that she can follow in the steps of her cousin Anne Boleyn to dazzle her way to the throne but her kinswoman Jane Boleyn, haunted by the past, knows that Anne's path led to Tower Green and to an adulterer's death"

Being a fan of Philippa Gregory's novels, I was really looking forward to reading this book. I always find her Tudor novels a treat to read, and know I'm in for something special.
I enjoyed reading about Anne of Cleaves and Katherine Howard, I hadn't read a novel with them in it before. Another thing I liked about this book, was we got to see another side to Jane Boleyn. I actually felt sorry for her in this book, while in The Other Boleyn Girl I hated her.
Kathrine Howard in this novel I did find a little irritating, as her immaturity got to me, but I know the author was trying to show how young she was and her immaturity compared to the grown up court.

As I've read Philippa's Tudor novels, I've learnt more about history by going on the true historical facts. Henry VIII was not a nice man at all, he was to be feared and thank god those times are past.

So, here I get to sum the book up and I have to say I did enjoy it, although I was irritated a little by Katherine Howard. It's not my favourite novel in the Tudor series, it comes third to The Other Boleyn Girl and The Constant Princess. The Virgins Lover and The Queens Fool, follow.

House of Echoes by Barbara Erskine

Author: Barbara Ersikine
ISBN: 0-58-351149-X
Genre: Fiction
Pages: 421
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Harper Collins


"When Joss, who is adopted, decides to trace her natural parents, she finds her deceased mother has left her a country mansion in her will. Joss and her family are thrilled to start a new life, but gradually they begin to understand the house's terrible past."

I was really looking forward to reading this book, after hearing that some people really enjoyed it but, sadly I hated it! I had to slug through the last pages and basically rushed through the book to finish it.

I thought I was in for a good horror story, but I didn't find it scary and I was sick to death of reading about the whining from the two sisters Joss & Lyn. Whine whine whine!!!! I couldn't connect with any of the characters either. This book just didn't keep me interested. I found that I didn't really like Joss. I'm not sure if it was her character or the way the author writes? As even some things Joss husband (Luke) said to her, just didn't seem right in the book to me? There was just too much whining going on and not enough action and there didn't seem to be any atmosphere to this book.

I wouldn't even compare this book to 'Jame Herbert's The Secret of Crickley Hall', which imo was 100 times more exciting and scarier than this book.

This was my first Barbara Erskine book, I have Sands of Time sitting on my shelf, but that will be going way down on the list! Sorry to all those who like her, I know this book has been highly recommended else where. But I just didn't like this book.

My Rating: Obviously disappointing.

Randomness

I found this over a Rhinoa's Blog , who is tagging anyone who wants to do it, and I'm doing the same too!

The rules are simple. In the following list of a hundred books, bold the ones you've read, mark in blue the ones you want to read, mark in red the ones you don't want to read , italicise the ones you've never heard of, and leave the rest alone.

1. The DaVinci Code (Dan Brown)
2. Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen)
3. To Kill A Mockingbird (Harper Lee)
4. Gone With The Wind (Margaret Mitchell)
5. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (Tolkien)
6. The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring (Tolkien)
7. The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers (Tolkien)
8. Anne of Green Gables (L.M. Montgomery)
9. Outlander (Diana Gabaldon)
10. A Fine Balance (Rohinton Mistry)
11. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Rowling)
12. Angels and Demons (Dan Brown)
13. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Rowling)
14. A Prayer for Owen Meany (John Irving)
15. Memoirs of a Geisha (Arthur Golden)
16. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Rowling)
17. Fall on Your Knees (Ann-Marie MacDonald)
18. The Stand (Stephen King)
19. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Rowling)
20. Jane Eyre (Charlotte Bronte)
21. The Hobbit (Tolkien)
22. The Catcher in the Rye (J.D. Salinger)
23. Little Women (Louisa May Alcott)
24. The Lovely Bones (Alice Sebold)
25. Life of Pi (Yann Martel)
26. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (Douglas Adams)
27. Wuthering Heights (Emily Bronte)
28. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (C. S. Lewis)
29. East of Eden (John Steinbeck)
30. Tuesdays with Morrie (Mitch Albom)
31. Dune (Frank Herbert)
32. The Notebook (Nicholas Sparks)
33. Atlas Shrugged (Ayn Rand)
34. 1984 (Orwell)
35. The Mists of Avalon (Marion Zimmer Bradley)
36. The Pillars of the Earth (Ken Follett)
37. The Power of One (Bryce Courtenay)
38. I Know This Much is True (Wally Lamb)
39. The Red Tent (Anita Diamant)
40. The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho)
41. The Clan of the Cave Bear (Jean M. Auel)
42. The Kite Runner (Khaled Hosseini)
43. Confessions of a Shopaholic (Sophie Kinsella)
44. The Five People You Meet In Heaven (Mitch Albom)
45. The Bible
46. Anna Karenina (Tolstoy)
47. The Count of Monte Cristo (Alexandre Dumas)
48. Angela’s Ashes (Frank McCourt)
49. The Grapes of Wrath (John Steinbeck)
50. She’s Come Undone (Wally Lamb)
51. The Poisonwood Bible (Barbara Kingsolver)
52. A Tale of Two Cities (Dickens)
53. Ender’s Game (Orson Scott Card)
54. Great Expectations (Dickens) - just over half way through this
55. The Great Gatsby (Fitzgerald)
56. The Stone Angel (Margaret Laurence)
57. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Rowling)
58. The Thorn Birds (Colleen McCullough)
59. The Handmaid’s Tale (Margaret Atwood)
60. The Time Traveller’s Wife (Audrew Niffenegger)
61. Crime and Punishment (Fyodor Dostoyevsky)
62. The Fountainhead (Ayn Rand)
63. War and Peace (Tolstoy)
64. Interview With The Vampire (Anne Rice)
65. Fifth Business (Robertson Davis)
66. One Hundred Years Of Solitude (Gabriel Garcia Marquez)
67. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (Ann Brashares)
68. Catch-22 (Joseph Heller)
69. Les Miserables (Hugo)
70. The Little Prince (Antoine de Saint-Exupery)
71. Bridget Jones’ Diary (Fielding)
72. Love in the Time of Cholera (Marquez)
73. Shogun (James Clavell)
74. The English Patient (Michael Ondaatje)
75. The Secret Garden (Frances Hodgson Burnett)
76. The Summer Tree (Guy Gavriel Kay)
77. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (Betty Smith)
78. The World According to Garp (John Irving)
79. The Diviners (Margaret Laurence)
80. Charlotte's Web (E.B. White)
81. Not Wanted On The Voyage (Timothy Findley)
82. Of Mice And Men (Steinbeck)
83. Rebecca (Daphne DuMaurier)
84. Wizard’s First Rule (Terry Goodkind)
85. Emma (Jane Austen)
86. Watership Down(Richard Adams)
87. Brave New World (Aldous Huxley)
88. The Stone Diaries (Carol Shields)
89. Blindness (Jose Saramago)
90. Kane and Abel (Jeffrey Archer)
91. In The Skin Of A Lion (Ondaatje)
92. Lord of the Flies (Golding)
93. The Good Earth (Pearl S. Buck)
94. The Secret Life of Bees (Sue Monk Kidd)
95. The Bourne Identity (Robert Ludlum)
96. The Outsiders (S.E. Hinton)
97. White Oleander (Janet Fitch)
98. A Woman of Substance (Barbara Taylor Bradford)
99. The Celestine Prophecy (James Redfield)
100. Ulysses (James Joyce)

Well, as you can see I need to be doing a lot more reading! I hadn't heard of a lot of those! Think I need to get my butt in gear! hehehe

Read Print

I'm not usually one for online books, but I came across this site a while back called 'Read Print' and book marked it. I've decided I'm going to have a go at reading some of the books on here. They're all Classics. My first I think will have to be Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol.

Here's the link if anyone else is interested. My library is closed atm, so this is going to come in really handy.

Read Print

The Cosmic Ordering Service by Barbel Mohr.

Author: Barbel Mohr
ISBN: 0-340-93332-1
Genre: Self help - Non Fiction
Pages:102
Format: Paperback
Publisher: HODDER MOBIUS

" The Cosmic Ordering Service is the new self-help phenomenon. It is recognised as the book that turned TV presenter Noel Edmonds' life around. Bestselling author Barbel Mohr teaches you how to fulfil all your wishes -- just by placing an order with the universe. She has used the Cosmic Ordering Service to gain her dream job, the ideal man, money, health -- even a castle to live in! Mohr has taught hundreds and thousands of others how to listen to your inner voice, place your order, sit back, and let marvellous things happen."


I first heard about this book in the paper when Noel Edmond's show ' Deal or No Deal' first came onto our screens. He kept having these tattoo's on his hands, and in the paper he mentioned the book and said he followed the authors system. So, my sister went and bought the book, she loved it and then my mum got me a copy. I had picked it up a little while ago, but forgot about it until this weekend, when I picked it up and finished it. I seem to have forgotten about my spiritual books, after reading so much fiction. So have dug them all out.

This really is a little book all about positivity. It's about asking the universe for things you desire and the universe delivering them. It starts with explaining about the author and how she found herself arguing with her friend about ordering from the cosmos, and how she made a list of orders not expecting to get them at all, and then she's amazed when she did. She then goes on to show you, how you can make orders and gives some exercises for you to follow.
Barbel, also talks about the spirit world, and gives you an exercise to follow to get in contact with the 'other side'. I found this to be really peaceful and I enjoyed it.

I also loved all the positive quotes that are in the back of this book, they really make you feel good about yourself and help to put you into a positive mood, raising your self esteem.

Overall though, even though I enjoyed this book, I didn't think any of it was 'new' information. As asking the universe for things is something I've done all my life, we all do it in one way or another. It also reminded me of Prayer, Spells and Reiki. All these things are getting in touch with your higher self and spirit. It's the sort of book you keep by your bed at night and read for a little inspiration and confidence boost.

My Rating; Filled with Positive Energy.

The Little House by Philippa Gregory

Author: Philippa Gregory
ISBN: 058351149X
Genre: Fiction
Pages: 360
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Harper Collins



"It was easy for Elizabeth. She married the man she loved. It was harder for Ruth. She married Elizabeth's son and then found that, somehow, she could never quite measure up. This thriller examines what women want and what they fear, as Ruth confronts the shifting borders of her own sanity."


Philippa Gregory does it again, as she delivered this fantastic moving novel!
I was gripped from page one. After reading this book I have come to a conclusion that Philippa Gregory is my most favourite author, she's my number one. Not only can she write Tudor fiction, she can also write thrillers. This book had me wanting to jump into the story and help Ruth, and wanted me to open Patrick's eyes!

Basically the story is about how a daughter in-law cannot live up to her Mother in-laws expectations. Nothing she does is right, and when it comes to her having a baby, she can't even do that right. There is something sinister going on behind the scenes, the Mother In-law (Elizabeth) has other ideas for Thomas, her grandchild. She wants to bring him up and Ruth doesn't fit into her family. Ruth's in-laws threaten to have her put into a mental institution. But I can't tell you anymore, as you'll have to read it. I was so sure how this story was going to end but, I was surprised with a shock ending!

My rating: Totally gripping and very moving!!

BTT

Booking Through Thursday

1. Do you cheat and peek ahead at the end of your books? Or do you resolutely read in sequence, as the author intended? No I never peek. I always read the book as it is meant to be read. I think reading ahead would spoil the book, although I know some people who do read the last page first.
   
2. And, if you don’t peek, do you ever feel tempted? No I don't, I don't see the point as I want to enjoy the book, not spoil it for myself.
   

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince

Author: J.K Rowiling
ISBN: 0-7475-8108-8
Genre: Fantasy Fiction
Pages: 607
Format: Hardback
Publisher: Bloomsbury


"In the sixth and most recent book, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, the last chapter, titled "The Second War Begins," started:
'In a brief statement Friday night, Minister of Magic Cornelius Fudge confirmed that He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named has returned to this country and is active once more.
"It is with great regret that I must confirm that the wizard styling himself Lord - well, you know who I mean - is alive among us again," said Fudge.'
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince takes up the story of Harry Potter's sixth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry at this point in the midst of the storm of this battle of good and evil."


I decided to re-read this book so that I could refresh my memory for the new coming and last installment of Harry Potter. Having enjoyed this book the first time I read it, I enjoyed it much more the second time around. I have enjoyed reading the journey with Harry and the rest of the guys, it's like you get to be apart of what's going on. This book is much darker than the others but so enjoyable. I had tears in my eyes at the end. The only part I'm not convinced about is Harry and Ginny. The saddest part is no more of a certain lovable character :( .
Although I loved this book, my favorite HP book so far remains to be The Order of the Phoenix.

My Rating: Loved every minute of it.

The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien.

Author: J. R. R. Tolkien.
ISBN: 0-00-675402-3
Genre: Fantasy Fiction
Publisher: Collins

"The classic story of Bilbo Baggins and his adventures through Rivendell, Mirkwood, and Erebor; released in a new paperback format. Easily one of the most famous children's books of modern times, "The Hobbit" is a must read and this edition will bring it to life for a whole new generation of readers. Bilbo Baggins enjoys a quiet and contented life, with no desire to travel far from the comforts of home. Then, one day, the wizard Gandalf and a band of dwarves arrive unexpectedly and enlist his services - as a burglar - on a dangerous expedition to raid the treasure-hoard of Smaug the dragon. Bilbo's life is never to be the same again. "The Hobbit" became an instant success when it was first published in 1937, and nearly 70 years later, Tolkien's epic tale of elves, dwarves, trolls, goblins, myth, magic and adventure, with its reluctant hero Bilbo Baggins, has become a timeless classic. This new children's edition of "The Hobbit", with a refreshed cover, will bring this classic story to a whole new generation of readers."

This is a book I've been meaning to read for ages, especially after being a fan of the Lord of the Rings movies. As I was reading this, it made me wish I had loved to read as a child, as I would have totally loved this book back then too.
I'm currently trying to get my 10 year old son to read it, but sadly like I was at his age, he doesn't want to read. Hmmm.

Anyway, I totally loved this book, it was better than I thought it would be. It was an exciting read and very enjoyable. It wasn't long until I was lost within the pages and hooked. I've not read much in the way of fantasy fiction, and if I can find more books like this then I'd be hooked.

Now I have to read The Lord of the Rings series!

My Rating: An Exciting Fantasy Novel!

50 Book Challenge.

I've just joined up with the 50 Book Challenge at The Library Thing

I've never read 50 books in a year before, being a bit of a slow reader, but I'm going to give it a try. I love reading and want to try and read more this year anyway.

So I'll start tomorrow with Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, which I am going to re-read, as I'm getting ready for the new book in July! Yay!

The Time Travelers Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

Author: Audrey Niffenegger
ISBN: 0-099-46446-2
Genre: Fiction
Publisher: Vintage.

"This extraordinary, magical novel is the story of Clare and Henry who have known each other since Clare was six and Henry was thirty-six, and were married when Clare was twenty-two and Henry thirty. Impossible but true, because Henry is one of the first people diagnosed with Chrono-Displacement Disorder: periodically his genetic clock resets and he finds himself pulled suddenly into his past or future. His disappearances are spontaneous and his experiences are alternately harrowing and amusing. The Time Traveler's Wife depicts the effects of time travel on Henry and Clare's passionate love for each other with grace and humour. Their struggle to lead normal lives in the face of a force they can neither prevent nor control is intensely moving and entirely unforgettable."

This is one of the books that I had wanted to read for ages. I'd read lots of good reviews about it and had to read it for myself.

The Story is about how Henry who has a genetic disorder, which makes him time travel. He meets his future wife when she is just 6 years old and from then on, visits her as she's growing up. Time traveling is not something he enjoys and wants it to stop, he finds a doctor who he hopes can help him, but can he? It's not easy convincing people he's a time traveler, especially when he time travels and ends up in a destination butt naked. I also liked reading Clare's side of how it was to live with Henry, and dealing with his absence when he time traveled.

There's so much to this book, it was very emotional. I really felt like I could connect with the characters, and I felt like I was there with them. I love books that do that to you. This is certainly a fabulous book, it was beautifully written and I enjoyed it so much
I loved how every detail of Henry and Clare's relationship went into this book, and I did enjoy reading about the love and passion they shared for each other.

I don't usually give my reviews scores, but if I was to, this one I'd give it 10/10.

My Verdict; One of the best books I've read.

BTT

Booking Through Thursday

• Do you read e-Books?
• f so, how? On your computer, or a PDA?
• Or are you a paper purist? Why?

No I don't. I have tried before but I always get bored with them quickly. There's nothing like getting stuck into a real paper book.

I've Been Tagged!!!

I've Been Tagged!!

Clare from http://bookreadingtales.blogspot.com/ has tagged me to answer these questions so here goes:

Name 3 Characters........
.............You wish were real so you could meet them:
Wow, let me think about this .......

Katherine of Aragon, Henry VIII's first wife. We know she was real in another time, but I love to read about her. She was a strong and loving woman & wife.

Armande from Joanne Harris's novel; Chocolat. I just loved that book, this character just got to me and pulled at my heart strings.

John Coffey from Stephen Kings; The Green Mile. I wanted to step inside this book and hug this man, and tell him it was going to be alright.

..............You would like to be:

Dumbledore from the Harry potter series, he's just so wise, powerful and loving!

Vianne Rocher from Joanne Harris novel; Chocolate. I loved reading about her struggle to be accepted and her relationship with Armande was really moving.

Henry from The Time Travelers wife by Audrey Niffenegger. As I'd love to be able to time travel.

.................Who Scare Me:

Annie from Stephen Kings novel; Misery. She's just awful!!!

The Ghosts & father in Stephen Kings; The Shining.

The Ghost in James Herbert's; The Secret of Crickley Hall. He terrified me!!!

I'll tag Chrissy from; http://chrissysbookshelf.blogspot.com and Margo from http://margothinksit.blogspot.com

Saint Thomas's Eve by Jean Plaidy.

Author: Jean Plaidy
ISBN: 0-09-949323-3
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: arrow books

"Henry VII once warned his son, the future King of England, not to trust Thomas More; years later that same son made More his confidante and advisor. But the allegiance is dangerously one-sided. A family man, lawyer and writer, More's ambitions are humble, whilst Henry's are endless. As More's career at court rises so too does his religious fervour, much to the concern of his eldest daughter, Meg. Torn between her heretic husband and the secrets her father has confided in her, it is only a matter of time before her More will make the ultimate sacrifice for"

I borrowed this book from my sister after she read it and had really enjoyed it. Being a fan of historical fiction, I was eager to read this, as I hadn't read anything by this author before.
It took me a little while to get into the story, as it didn't seem that much was happening. But once I got to half way through the book, it began to pick up and I found myself enjoying it.

I liked reading about St Thomas More's relationship with his family, and his closeness to his eldest daughter Margaret. How they cherished him, and how Margaret wished for him to be home with them, instead of at Court.
What I liked about this book is, instead of giving you an insight into the world of Court life, you was given an insight into the life of Sir Thomas More.

Overall, I did enjoy this book, it's not my favourite Tudor novel, but I am pleased I read it, and I would read more from this author.