October has been quite a busy month for me, I had my birthday, went to the Durham Book Festival, had my North East Author and Reader group meet up and my husband was off for a week. With all that going on I’m surprised I read twelve books this month. To say this month has flown by is an understatement but here are my top reads of October.
The Glittering Hour by Iona Grey. Set in the roaring twenties and a decade later in the thirties has this book tells the story of Selina, one of the bright young things in the twenties and her doomed love affair with artist Lawrence Weston. This is a book about love, loss and living life to the full. Beautifully written, with attention to detail in both plot and character this is a stunning read.
The Dutch House by Ann Patchett. Ann Patchett has a wonderful style of writing that flows with ease taking the reader on the journey with the characters. This is a character driven book that focuses on sister and brother Maeve and Danny and their life at the Dutch House, a character in itself. Years after moving out of the Dutch House it still draws them back as they contemplate their lives and their step-mother who still lives there. A look at how the past has a hold on the future this is a poignant and thought provoking read and one I highly recommend.
Ghoster by Jason Arnopp. This book was a wow and OMG book for me. Kate moves her job and life to Brighton to move in with boyfriend Scott, the only problem being Scott isn’t there and the flat is empty. The only thing left behind is Scott’s mobile phone. As Kate looks into Scott’s life she finds herself questioning the man she fell in love with, and her own sanity. This is a sinister and twisted read that left my spine tingling.
The Christmas Party by Karen Swan. This is my first festive review and written by one of my favourite authors. Lorne Castle is the seat of the last Knight of Ireland but after Declan Lorne’s sudden death the title dies with him. Three years previously Willow, his youngest daughter ran away to live the high life in Dublin, so it is a shock to all three sisters when she is left the castle by her father. As all three sisters deal with their fathers death as well as their own personal problems Willow’s decision to sell the castle causes more problems. Drama, romance and plenty of Christmas spirit this is the perfect Christmas read.
Next month I will be reviewing two more festive reads by Danielle Steel and Lulu Taylor as well as The Guardian of Lies by Kate Furvinall and The Ex-Girlfriend by Nicola Moriarty. I hope you will stop by and see my thoughts on these eclectic mix of books.
