As someone who grew up surrounded by pets of all kinds, I couldn’t pass by a story of the most fascinating animal. Buffalo, to me, have always been an almost mythical species, and, to be honest, until I read this book, I’d been under the misconception that they were completely extinct. “A Buffalo in the... Continue Reading →
“Birds in the Nest” by Wendy Hart
This book comprises what I appreciate the most in my reading: the rich setting and intricacies of human fates. Going about their day with the characters, doing their chores, feeling what they feel, be it joy, confusion, sadness, or grief, transforms me from a reader to a participant. And that, in turn, transforms a book into... Continue Reading →
“If I Lie in a Combat Zone” by Will Tinkham
Well, something doesn’t feel right here. Just a short time ago, I declared the previous book that I’d read in the Americana series to be my absolute all-time favourite. And now I loved the one I’ve just finished so much, racing through its pages like a horse set on winning Royal Ascot, laughing and crying... Continue Reading →
“Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing” by Matthew Perry
Reading this book was painful. I felt sad and angry. At some point, all the negativity so overwhelmed me that I almost decided not to finish. And it says something, for very seldom do I not finish my reads. The reason wasn’t that I condemn addiction and don’t believe that it is a disease. The... Continue Reading →
“Sandcastles” by Lily Lawson
I’d first read this short story collection some time ago. Life was so hectic then that, although I couldn’t refrain from indulging in my favourite pastime – reading, obviously – I couldn’t keep up with writing reviews for everything that I’d read. And while for some books a short, formal review would suffice, especially for... Continue Reading →
“The Secret Lives of the Doyenne of Didsbrook” by Tessa Barrie
First of all, I must confess that I have a soft spot for the English countryside as a book setting. Two decades ago, I used to live in a beautiful rural location on the Jurassic coast, and every time I read about an English village, it brings a warm wave of nostalgia. Walking along the... Continue Reading →
“The Impoverished Orphan” by Kelly Miller
As did each of the Austenesque variations by Kelly Miller – and I have read them all – this one provided me with a delicious escape from reality to the elegance of the Regency era. Upon opening the first page, I was transported from the bleak November to the candlelit dining rooms and rose gardens... Continue Reading →