Category Archives: Book reviews

July 5, 2021 · 8:30 am

Diana’s July Book Review ~ Keepers by Cheryl Burman

Why did I choose this book?

I was drawn to Keepers because:

I enjoy historical fiction
I was excited to read a novel set in Australia, especially about the same time my uncle and his family moved there from the UK

Did you feel empathy with any particular character?

Oh yes. I loved the idea that Raine tried to continue her struggle with life in her ramshackle home, distant from the town. Her resilience and determination to keep independent made me warm to her. She was not tempted to take the easy options, whether it be coping with life or who to share her life with.

Is there a lasting thought or memory of the book which remains with you?

The last few chapters ~ Love drove Raine to ignore the dangers and warning signs but just go for it!

Keepers was a gripping read. Most enjoyable!

Book Review of the Month ~ Secrets of the Sea House by Elisabeth Gifford

Today I am reviving my monthly book review, but this time I will post it on my blog before adding it to my rolling reviews on my Book of the Month Page.

Why did I choose this book?

I was drawn to Secrets of the Sea because:

I have visited Harris, Lewis and Uist and was drawn to the landscape; wild and rugged in contrast to the great expanse of machair, with wild flowers almost hidden by flowing grasses, a reflection of the sea and long sandy beaches.
I enjoy historical fiction and yet …
I also love reading novels in parallel time scales. I love the way they are woven to overlap and yet they are two stories in one, bringing history into the present day.
I have been inspired by local folklore in Scotland and Selkies intrigue me!

Did you feel empathy with any particular character?

Oh yes. Ruth’s struggles to shed her past memories. Memories are a bit like witness statements ~ it’s surprising how inaccurate they can be, especially those from childhood, and yet Ruth has resilience and a good man watching out for her.

Is there a lasting thought or memory of the book which remains with you?

Oh yes. I want to know more about the research and history behind the theory of where Selkies come from and I yearn to visit the islands again, especially Harris, North Uist and Benbecula, which we visited only briefly. I need more time to explore and absorb the essence of those places.

Earth Day 2021 ~ How to Value a Skylark Giveaway

I love today’s Google Doodle and it brings to mind fellow author Brian Kerr’s recently released book

HOW TO VALUE A SKYLARK

The Countryside in a Time of Change

Brian Kerr

In it he reflects on climate change and it’s immediate effect on our countryside, predominantly in the UK. Brian:

evaluates the current trends in making amends
looks in a balanced way on the impact on livelihoods and our countryside
makes further suggestions

and in short asks two questions

1. Can we put a value on what we treasure in our countryside? ie a skylark or a bluebell wood
2. Can we hesitate any longer?

Brian is offering two of his paperback books, currently marketed in Amazon at £19.99 but can be bought on Waterstones, Blackwells and Hive books or through the author or directly through the publisher Eventispress.

Brian asks only for two things;

What is your interest as a reader in issues of this climate emergency?
Would you be willing to give an honest review for publicity purposes?

Please respond to eventispress@outlook.com if you are interested.

Brian Kerr is a soil scientist and Fellow at Cranfield University. He is a hands on author who sells a great deal of his books locally through Waterstones, other independent booksellers and at author talks. This book is his most ambitious so far and reaches far beyond Bedfordshire, his usual focus in his writing.