Wow! Such an insightful glimpse at the issues faced in delivering safe food to our pets. I was saddened and gladdened in equal measure - saddened by sWow! Such an insightful glimpse at the issues faced in delivering safe food to our pets. I was saddened and gladdened in equal measure - saddened by some of the attitudes of manufacturers towards being challenged on their poor practices, and gladdened by the doggedness (pardon the pun) of some of the authorities charged with exposing these risks.
As a pet owner, one with a very fussy approach to food that has meant many changes to his diet, reading about the fundamental disregard of some manufacturers is hard to stomach. You can almost hear the subtext of their disdain (it's just a dog/cat/rabbit etc) and yet, for many, myself included, my dogs are family. So when the consequences of such negligence can prove fatal, I want to know about it. However, these statistics are merely the tip of the iceberg given that so many cases will go unreported. The author has phrased this book so appropriately: pet food is indeed a risky business. Of course, the author provides balance in highlighting the efforts taken by those charged with acting upon those reports and carrying out the subsequent inspections and putting in place measures to raise standards to safeguard the final products, but oh my goodness, what an uphill struggle they face. I have nothing but thanks for their efforts yet feel somewhat disheartened by a)the attitudes they face, b)the time it takes to achieve anything and c)the loopholes which permit directives, legal requirements and ethical responsibilities to be ignored. For this exposure, the author should be congratulated, and every pet owner should read this and feel empowered to act if the health of their pet is ever considered to have been detrimentally affected by those we trust to provide safe and healthy products at all times. I must admit to have elected to put my own dog on a home-cooked diet in recent years, and as he has just passed his 17th birthday, I'm so glad to have made that decision. That said, the recipes provided at the end of the book have given me food for thought since my old boy has become picky in his old age - I reckon he's ready for some quinoa!
My thanks to the author for this meticulous insight - would that it weren't necessary to hold those responsible constantly to account, but it is ... and this book does that with aplomb....more
This was a refreshing change in murder mystery crime for me, straddling the genres of a police procedural with a grittier take on a cosy mystery by viThis was a refreshing change in murder mystery crime for me, straddling the genres of a police procedural with a grittier take on a cosy mystery by virtue of its protagonist and principal sleuth being a male, investigative journalist. Intriguing, indeed.
The story begins dramatically with the shooting of the victim at the theatre only minutes after having introduced himself to journalist, Nick. That said, why the victim felt the need to explain why he was occupying said seat 97 felt a tad forced, but regardless, that information is the catalyst that compels Nick to stick with the case along with the certainty of what he and his wife witness of the presumed killer’s actions. Suspicions are raised, and quickly dismissed by police, which only makes Nick more determined to confirm those suspicions. However, doing so, is not as simple and I enjoyed seeing the facts unfold as Nick puts the pieces of the puzzle together, despite being encouraged to stay out of it by the police. It felt like a race to the finish to see whether he would be proved right or whether he’d been on a wild goose chase all along.
Well-paced and full of intrigue, Seat 97 is a compelling read that kept my attention throughout, and now knowing more about the author I’m keen to check out his other books � a win-win for me!...more
Waving your young children off on a school trip is meant to be a momentous occasion: seeing them go off, all happy and excited without you is a sign tWaving your young children off on a school trip is meant to be a momentous occasion: seeing them go off, all happy and excited without you is a sign they’re growing up and exploring the world. It’s time to embrace their absolute joy and not feel as though they don’t need you anymore. It’s tough, but it’s a rite of passage� until they don’t return home. Then, your worst fears are realised and you need them back, safe under your protection. But you’re powerless, this is beyond your control and you have to trust others � namely, the police � to find them� alive and well. As a premise, this is such a compelling story, and seeing how the parents react is fascinating,especially when the twist comes and their own behaviour comes under scrutiny from those in this small circle of friends and neighbours, courtesy of very cryptic demands from the kidnappers. Tension increases, friction drives a wedge between the parents and the police, and then amongst the parents themselves. When the perspective shifts to the children, the reader gets an insight into how they’re being treated, who is coping and isn’t, and this lays the path towards a resolution. An intriguing style that really pays off in balancing the parents� concerns with the kidnappers approach to keeping the children calm. Engrossing and engaging, well-paced and with an ending that might raise an eyebrow or two as to its credibility. Miscategorised as new adult and college fiction though. ...more
What a treat it was to dip into this book and be transported into the lives of others with such effortless ease. It takes great skill to immerse a reaWhat a treat it was to dip into this book and be transported into the lives of others with such effortless ease. It takes great skill to immerse a reader in stories as short as 70 words, and yet they are as compelling and moving as their lengthier counterparts. Exploring themes of family, love, loss and everything in between, these stories stir up a range of emotions with a mix of humour and tragedy: I loved A Swan's Path <3 and I Don't Want to Dance - strikingly different yet both wholly realistic. The beauty of short stories is that you can dip in and out as time permits, though, I must admit to always wanting to read "just one more". As the description so aptly states, these stories portray small chunks of life, many with a poignancy that lingers on in your mind long after you've finished reading. A great balance of tone, characterisation, setting and feelings that ground you in the moment, no matter how fleeting. Enjoy! You'll not regret diving into these pages. ...more
Escaping the glamour of the filing cabinets, Fiona Figg is on her way to Cairo with associates Kitty Lane and Clifford Douglas on behalf of British InEscaping the glamour of the filing cabinets, Fiona Figg is on her way to Cairo with associates Kitty Lane and Clifford Douglas on behalf of British Intelligence. Their mission is to locate German spy, Fredrick Fredericks, and obtain intel on a rumoured attempt to derail the Suez Canal project. From the moment I met the trio, I knew a fun journey lay ahead, particularly as Fiona is intent on proving her value as an undercover agent (anything to avoid a return to the filing cabinets!)
It’s apparent early on that these three have an unorthodox style to espionage, openly discussing their mission in front of the stranger in their carriage, who oddly enough has his own opinion to share.
Arriving in Cairo to find another British agent has gone missing, their job has got more complicated. But never fear, for Fiona has her trusted (and not so trusted) disguises with her and will blend in perfectly under the intense Egyptian sun. Clifford, ever the gentleman, is ready to keep the ladies safe, oblivious � as is Fiona � to Kitty’s admirable talents which includes camel riding at speed and foot-fighting(!), plus others skills acquired at her “French finishing school� (or so Fiona is led to believe!)
With further dead bodies at archeological sites, numerous yet undetected run-ins with her nemesis, Fredricks, the story races along at a great pace. The author has equipped Fiona with such a strong and easily identifiable voice that resonates throughout with plenty of dry wit, self-reflection and a determination to find her foe even if it means � and it does � discomfort and danger. Unfortunately, Fiona isn’t always so adept at picking up on the clues and hints until it’s almost too late, but she’s not a quitter.
Covert in Cairo is light-hearted in tone but with a tantalizing backdrop at a time in history when women are coming into their own. The plot is chock-a-block with conundrums, red herrings and misdirection which keep the trio on their toes. It’s fun, maybe a little drawn out and repetitive at times as Fiona has to rethink her decisions, but it is delightfully engaging and evocative and will have you wondering if they can actually complete their mission. I’d happily read more of her adventures, assuming there will be more ;) ...more
A heart-warming story of the strength of family when someone you've believed in all your life is found to be flawed. yet, despite the upset, the disapA heart-warming story of the strength of family when someone you've believed in all your life is found to be flawed. yet, despite the upset, the disappointment, even the anger when the secret is revealed, the fortitude of Ava to hold things together and to not forget the good times (ie it wasn't all bad) is admirable. That her family understand (eventually, once the shock wanes) and are able to follow her example too offers hope for their stronger future. This story epitomises the saying that what doesn't kill us, makes us stronger. A great start to a new series and new-to-me author. I'm in for more ;) ...more
Wow! Two fabulous locked room mysteries in one book, and my first encounter with Washington Poe. It won't be my last. Clever, puzzling, complex and thoWow! Two fabulous locked room mysteries in one book, and my first encounter with Washington Poe. It won't be my last. Clever, puzzling, complex and thoroughly entertaining mysteries made even better by the wonderful team of Poe and Tilly - what a duo! It's a fast-paced, intelligent, and well-crafted story, complemented by Poe's dry, sharp wit, Tilly's refreshingly innocent gullibility and a whole host of personalities who bring the story to life. Can't wait to go back and read the rest. ...more
Great historical fiction with a clear attention to the societal rules of the era set against the perfect backdrop of the mysterious Yorkshire moors toGreat historical fiction with a clear attention to the societal rules of the era set against the perfect backdrop of the mysterious Yorkshire moors to create an intriguing story that held my attention from start to finish. Ruby May has her own reasons for wanting to become a Norland nurse: it's a chance for her to put the past behind her and strike out on her own - after all, no-one need ever know her story. Taking up a post with the England family in West Yorkshire, Ruby soon adapts to the change of pace after having worked on in London, but there's something unusual about the mistress of the house - Mrs England - something Ruby can't put her finger on. Unlike her husband, Mr England, Mrs England seems to avoid spending time with the children, or with anyone. As time goes on, however, Ruby's unease grows and events unfurl to challenge her preconceptions: is Mr England as 'nice' as he seems? Is Mrs England withdrawn for a reason? It is when Ruby's own past is used against her on a dark, wet and windy night on the crags - an incident that brings back old memories - that she finally gets some clarity. An atmospheric read, great character development and a blend of heart-warming family moments with some dark and dangerous deeds....more
This book starts with those years leading to Hitler’s rise, highlighting the struggles for many, who lacked food, shelter and most importantly hope. IThis book starts with those years leading to Hitler’s rise, highlighting the struggles for many, who lacked food, shelter and most importantly hope. It shows us how Hitler was able to take advantage of that environment and manipulate it to serve his own ends. ‘Hitler won’t last two months,� they said, ‘his ideas are too radical.� For banker, Julius and his wife Edith, their privileged life was unaffected for a long time, until “they came for him�. Dismissing Hitler’s rise to power as nothing to fear was easier from a position of wealth. Julius’s own sisters, unlike him had not converted to Christianity, and saw the threat coming. Julius felt that conversion offered him immunity� how wrong he was. Yet, elsewhere, Hitler’s boldness was welcomed, people cheering on his determination to see through his promises, sensing hope after the country had been ravaged by WW1 and the ensuing reparations that bound Germany to years of austerity where inflation raged, the Reichsmark became worthless, and their futures looked bleak and uncertain. Edith’s own family, much less well off than her husband’s, however, saw things differently. Her brother Joseph rose in the ranks of the SS in support of Der Führer, putting a strain on family bonds from the start, bonds that could only stretch so far before snapping. Caught in the middle, the Mischlings - Edith’s schoolfriend, Helga, who’d married a non-practising Jew, lived a happy life with their two children, but who could now only look on in horror as their lives unravelled. With the benefit of hindsight, we can see the traps set to take the German people along with him. As the saying goes, “The only thing necessary for evil to triumph in the world is that good men do nothing.� Yet what could be done when raising your head above the parapet made you a marked man? What a pace this story moves at, switching between main viewpoints that deftly show how one’s life experiences and personal circumstances affected everything. The speed of change was beyond comprehension, new laws making life harder for those who opposed while being cheered on by those who saw their own prospects improving. This story, so well researched, reminds us of those early atrocities and how unimpeded Hitler’s path to power became. Violence, sowing hatred and division, pitting citizen against citizen, family members against each other, employees against employers, and even wives against husbands, all tactics that worked in his favour.
It was impossible not to get drawn into this story, to not feel despair for the characters who could not believe what was happening to their country, nor could they understand how little time it took for family and friends to turn against them. Yet, to those in support of the regime, in their shoes, how might we have reacted? Knowing what awaited those who fell foul of the Aryan dream, their stories are even more compelling. And yet, given what w know, it’s so sad to acknowledge how little we’ve learnt from the past, for are we not seeing similar seeds of division being sown in current times, pitting people against each other and stirring up tensions? So compelling, moving, despairing and heart-breaking, yet the flicker of hope never went out. Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advanced reading copy. I’m all in for the next in the series. ...more
I must admit to not having read all of the previous books in this series � and that’s on me (so many books, so little time) � but despite that it was I must admit to not having read all of the previous books in this series � and that’s on me (so many books, so little time) � but despite that it was so simple to dip back into the series and I was able to quickly get up to speed with Nikki’s and Saj’s lives in and out of work. That said, I’m planning to go and fill in those gaps soon because reading End Game reminded just how good this series is.
Why is it so good? Author talent aside (because, doh! - that’s a given, right?) this particular book was so on topic with two very timely themes: grooming gangs and the trust people have � or don’t have - in the police.
Years before, a young girl, stewing over an argument with her parents, disappears and is never found. But Marnie isn’t dead, and she’s not alone either. The case has gone cold.
Meanwhile, in present times, a family of four, in the midst of an innocent game of Monopoly, is found brutally murdered at the table with little sign of them putting up any resistance. With a fifth player clearly taking part, and not accounted for among the dead, the question arises whether player five was the perpetrator or the one that got away.
And back at the station, Nikki Parekh, now officially a DI, is determined to prove herself, despite having one of the best clear-up rates on the force. Yet her bosses seem willing to throw her under a bus when the press call the police out for being “woke�. Nikki and her team come under further pressure to perform well. As has been said frequently of late, “a fish rots from the head�, and there’s a real stink coming from the station.
In combining these threads (how did she do that?), the author has created a tense, thrilling, often horrifying story that gallops at such a pace to its inevitable conclusion (no spoilers, but it’s incredibly addictive � you won’t be able to stop reading). On the way, the story is peppered with the stuff of life, from family challenges to planning a stag-do for Saj’s wedding. These (comparatively) lighter moments only endear Nikki and Saj’s families to the reader more, not forgetting the rest of their team with their own private revelations but who very obviously have their boss’s back regardless of the flak being hurled at them.
Compelling, chilling, and unforgettable � this is a story that will stay with me for quite some time. Definitely the strongest police procedural I’ve read in a long, long time. Kudos to Liz Mistry. ...more
I enjoyed the story but found the writing style quite repetitive (too many "as clauses") which stunted the flow in what is a quite well-paced tale. ThI enjoyed the story but found the writing style quite repetitive (too many "as clauses") which stunted the flow in what is a quite well-paced tale. There's a cliff-hanger ending that leaves the story unresolved, but I'm looking forward to seeing how things pan out for the writer MC and his girlfriend. ...more
Yay, I’m back in “la belle France� with another of Gillian Harvey’s books, and the setting is as stunning as ever, the characters believable and relevYay, I’m back in “la belle France� with another of Gillian Harvey’s books, and the setting is as stunning as ever, the characters believable and relevant for women of a certain age, and the whole story as highly entertaining and full of hope as always. Katy’s life is pretty normal � at 49, she’s married with a grown-up daughter, and is going through the motions. Get up, work, cook, clean, got to bed. Thank heavens for her friends and their exercise group to break the routine, but when even that becomes part of the routine, you have to wonder what Katy is getting out of life. Is she happy? Has she ever asked herself that question? When change is thrust upon by her husband leaving her for a younger woman, and her daughter taking up a job in Australia, Katy’s world crumbles. What does she have left without her family? She enjoys her job, but she’s not passionate about it. Cue an intervention by her friends who whisk her away to France. Can they help her see that she is worthy of a happy life? Well, their holiday is not without friction � Katy is struggling to accept her new status quo, and her friends are treading on eggshells to not upset her further. But two weeks in a beautiful French village, rediscovering her love of painting, enjoying great food� and meeting Valentin, the host’s brother seems to be having an effect. Until her world is tipped upside down again. Will Katy go back to her former, dull but steady existence, or is she ready to take a chance on a new life? The answer will surprise you at first, but maybe the choice she makes is only the first step in finding herself and her own happy ever after. Fabulous setting, great friendships, real conversations, and tough decisions make for a wonderfully immersive read....more
I’m loving this series and return to Florence safe in the knowledge of a fun and entertaining read. Dan Armstrong, former Chief Inspector at the Met, I’m loving this series and return to Florence safe in the knowledge of a fun and entertaining read. Dan Armstrong, former Chief Inspector at the Met, is now a private investigator , frequently helping out the Italian police due to a budding friendship with Virgilio, the Chief of Police. But now, Dan also takes on cases of his own. This time round, he’s trying out his new camera to catch out a cheating husband when Virgilio asks him to look into the matter of some threats made to the crew of a film company from the USA. These threats, odd that they should be sent to an American cast, are even more unusual in that they are delivered by crossbow. Dan takes the case, and with Oscar in tow � naturally � he sets off to question the cast and crew about the threats. Never did he imagine he’d spend the coming days dressed in Renaissance garb, complete with tights and a floppy hat, but in order to blend in he does so, much to the amusement of his Florentine friends and colleagues. However, tracking the archer is not easy, whoever is sending these threats is skilled and light on his or her feet, but at least no-one has been killed yet. Ah, and then someone is found dead in the woods with an arrow in his back. The case is developing at a pace that Dan can’t match, and this murder requires him to work with the police now to catch the culprit. This book continues with great characterisation as Dan settles into his new life, honing his skills as an author and investigator, and appreciating the beauty of his surroundings. He considers himself a lucky man to work in such a beautiful setting, and with a hint of romance on the horizon, life for Dan is going well. Another great mystery and a series I’m happy to return to. ...more
Based on real events, The Collaborator's Daughter tells the story of Fran (Safranka) who in 2010 returns to the country of her birth, Croatia. Fran leBased on real events, The Collaborator's Daughter tells the story of Fran (Safranka) who in 2010 returns to the country of her birth, Croatia. Fran left the country in 1944, taken by her mother to England: Her mother married a wonderful man, whom Fran called “Daddy�, and had always told Fran her birth father was a hero who died in 1944. Having cared for Daddy until his death, Fran is at a loss as to what to do with her life now. A trip to Croatia sounds like a great way to recharge her batteries and learn about her parents� story. However, she quickly finds herself conflicted when she finds information about her birth father and what happened during the war and Nazi Occupation of Yugoslavia, details that doesn’t match what her mum told her about him. The story takes Fran on a journey, one she struggles to commit to, especially as her view of her father has been tainted. Was he really the hero her mother described him as? Interspersed with Fran’s discoveries is the story of her father, Branko Milišić, the true story that Fran has yet to uncover. It’s poignant and subtle, yet with repercussions that he could never have foreseen. Dubrovnik, Croatia is stunning, but the dark history of what happened in Daksa hangs heavy on Fran’s mind and it’s hard for her not to believe the worst of her father. Meeting Jadran brings some relief to the tale, but he is not without his own troubles, and together they come to realise that they have to live their own lives and not live in the past, in a past they cannot change. I was rooting for Fran to find out the true story of her father and willing her to not jump to conclusions. Whether she did or not, you’ll need to read for yourself, but I will say that she deserved a happy ending, as did Jadran, and how it unfolded brought a tear to my eyes. Thanks Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this compelling story....more
When you read the Million Eyes series, you soon realise that each book has many viewpoints, many layers and many possibilities� and you might feel somWhen you read the Million Eyes series, you soon realise that each book has many viewpoints, many layers and many possibilities� and you might feel somewhat daunted by it all, but fear not, the author has a steady hand on the tiller. While you might jump in time and place with different characters, there is an underlying mystery that grabs your attention and won’t let go until the end. There’s a reason why I’ve read all of the books in the series, and that is simply because I had to know why it all happened. It’s a roller-coaster of a trilogy that may seem, at times, far-fetched. Yet, as the layers unravel, the bizarre is not so bizarre, the unthinkable not so unthinkable. How the author held it all together, I do not know, but it is a really well-crafted and plotted series. With each book, you get more drawn into the world of little red pills that take you back to fascinating and relatable times in history, before catapulting you forward to a future that no-one wants. And yet, the ending packs an altogether different punch, one that is grounded in humanity. It’s touching, poignant and simply perfect. I can see myself re-reading this as a complete set and being as captivated and entrenched in the various stories as I have been this time. ...more
This is the second book I’ve read by Mary Grand and, as before, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’ve never been to the Isle of Wight, though I recall my mum This is the second book I’ve read by Mary Grand and, as before, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’ve never been to the Isle of Wight, though I recall my mum having fond memories of it. The author really brings it to life, showing off its history and tourist attractions. With some beautiful autumnal woodland scenes a well as the windy beach setting, it’s no wonder Susan, the main character, and her dogs love their daily walks.
Susan is getting used to her husband’s rapid and rather insensitive departure, and has taken a lodger � Colette � for company. She's delighted that Colette is fitting in so well, especially with her dog-walking group. So, when Colette is found dead at Castle Cove, Susan feels bereft once more. And she finds it difficult to accept the police’s report of accidental death � she knew Colette too well to believe the conclusions the police come to. Nor does it help that only hours before her death, Colette had confronted the dog-walkers with some very serious allegations regarding missing valuables belonging to her Gran. Many of the group had worked at the care home where Colette’s gran lived, and they don’t take lightly to being accused of theft. But is that all Colette is implying? She infers she has “information� on each of them that could implicate them in the theft. But surely, no-one in the dog-walking group could have killed Colette to silence her could they?
Try as she might, Susan cannot simply ignore a comment of Colette’s � that she would be forgotten easily � and makes it her business when sorting through Colette’s belongings to make sure justice has been served. Needless to say, the other dog-walkers are not as interested in Susan’s theories, suggesting she move on. Could it be they have something to hide? Susan will not rest until she knows for sure what happened to Colette that night.
Each member of the dog-walking group comes under suspicion as Susan investigates, and she discovers lot of facts about them that they wouldn’t want to be made public. However, the pieces of the puzzle don’t seem to fit, and Susan makes mistakes that put her in danger. Nonetheless, she grows ever more determined to get to the truth.
Running alongside her investigations, Susan’s family life has its own dramas � her divorce from Steve comes through, and her daughter wants her to leave the island and move closer. These family matters have their own impact on Susan and do their part in influencing her actions. She won’t be told what to do by the man who left her, and nor is she ready to play the part of the little old lady on the hill as her daughter seems to think she is.
This is a well-paced novel, with many twists and turns that had me second-guessing my own conclusions, as well as shouting at my Kindle for Susan to be safe. It’s a story of many parts � a new start for Susan as a single woman with her dogs, a tale of a sad and damaging childhood, a community of people with secrets, and of bonds that though fragile at times are stronger than they seem. Added to that, it’s an engaging and satisfying mystery with a stunningly atmospheric setting.
(Can I just add that as, a furmum, it was wonderful to see the dedication of the dog-walking group to their furry families � so many stories use animals as props, forgetting even their basic needs. Not here, Susan’s dogs are as much a part of the story as their human counterparts)
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance reader copy, which I have read and reviewed freely. ...more
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