Mid-year 2019 books review wrap-up

I'm a little bit late with my 2019 middle of the year wrap-up but I thought it would be interesting to look back at how my reading is going so far this year, what some of my favourite books have been and what I've been enjoying and recommending.

1. My reading tally.I set myself the challenge of reading 180 books in 2019. I had a bit of a blip last year when I had a lot of other things going on and didn't have quite as much time as normal for reading. I also went through a spell of not particularly enjoying a lot of the books I picked up. I was determined that this year would be different and so far it has been! I've read 109 books between January and July (yes, I'm a fast reader!) and have discovered some absolutely phenomenal novels and new authors. There are lots more fantastic releases due out during the rest of the year and I'm once again head over heels in love with books.

2. My favourites.
Choosing favourites is always hard but I've narrowed it down to a top 5 (in no particular order). These haven't all been published this year but I'm picking from the titles that I've read in 2019.

Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas (published by Bloomsbury)
An incredible end to the Throne of Glass series. 980 pages of pure enjoyment from one of my favourite authors.

 

 

A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer (published by Bloomsbury)

I'm loving the trend this year for fairy tale retellings. This is a brilliant twist on the traditional Beauty and the Beast story. Kemmerer's storytelling perspective is fresh and original and I loved this one. Read my full review here.  

 

 



Stepsister by Jennifer Donnelly (published by Hot Key Books)

Another twist on a classic fairytale but this time it's an inventive take on what happened to the ugly stepsisters after Cinderella was whisked off by the Prince. A sheer delight to read and a book which made me so happy!

Read my full review here

 

 

 Viper by Bex Hogan (published by Orion Children's Books)

I am obsessed with this book! If I could only recommend you read one thing this year, then it would definitely be 'Viper' which has reignited my love for all things pirate.

Read my full review here

 

 



The Hunting Party by Lucy Foley (published by Harper Collins)

The only adult read to make my top 5 of the year so far. A murder mystery thriller which is reminiscent of a classic Agatha Christie who-dunnit. Kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.

Read my full review here

 

 

3. Book/Author obsession

This has been the year that I've discovered and become obsessed with everything Agatha Christie related. I've been devouring her books and every week have come home with huge piles of her novels from the library. My favourite so far has probably been Poirot's very first case, 'The Mysterious Affair at Styles' but it's hard to choose because I have enjoyed so many. I now only have about 16 still to read (which I'm madly hunting for) but I don't know what I'm going to do once I've finished! 

 

4. Book miss

I was excited about reading 'The Record Keeper' by Agnes Gomillion but I really struggled with it. I do like some science fiction but this was quite heavily rooted in the genre and it didn't spark a lot of enjoyment for me. I've since seen some really positive reviews of the book from other readers that loved it though, so I always think it's worth giving books a go and making up your own mind. You can read my full review here

 

5. Surprise hit 

I picked up 'A Sky Painted Gold' by Laura Wood without knowing much about it. I thought that the cover was pretty and it sounded like my kind of book. I was really pleasantly surprised about just how much I enjoyed it. It's a wonderful read for summer, set in Cornwall (which isn't far away from me), features a dreamy romance and has brilliant characters that leap off the page. Laura's new book, 'Under a Dancing Star' has recently been published, so I'm desperate to get my hands on a copy as soon as possible.  

Review: Viper by Bex Hogan

Publisher: Orion Children's Books
Published: 18th April 2019

Synopsis:
Seventeen-year-old Marianne is fated to one day become the Viper, defender of the Twelve Isles.

But the reigning Viper stands in her way. Corrupt and merciless, he prowls the seas in his warship, killing with impunity, leaving only pain and suffering in his wake.

He's the most dangerous man on the ocean . . . and he is Marianne's father.

She was born to protect the islands. But can she fight for them if it means losing her family, her home, the boy she loves - and perhaps even her life?  

Review:
I've had an obsession with all things pirate related ever since I first watched the film Cutthroat Island and saw Geena Davis as a take-no-prisoners female pirate, on a quest for buried treasure. If I hadn't become a librarian then maybe life upon the high seas would have beckoned! I tell you this because it helps to explain my absolute obsession with 'Viper' by Bex Hogan. A debut which has stolen my heart.

I loved, loved, loved, loved, loved it! A fantasy pirate adventure, it delivered everything I want in a book and more. It conjured up the salty smell of the sea, the tang of spilt blood and the taste of danger. It gripped and entranced me from start to finish and my only criticism is that it wasn't twice the number of pages, so that I could have prolonged my enjoyment. It's one of the BEST books I've read so far this year and one that I'm going to be begging everyone else to read too.

The first in the Isles of Storm and Sorrow trilogy (oh thank goodness that there will be more!), the story follows the main character of 17 year old Marianne. She is the daughter of the Viper - the deadliest Pirate Captain on the seas and the 'supposed' defender of the Twelve Isles. The Viper is as evil and ruthless as they come and although Marianne is his daughter, he has never shown her any love or understanding. He only knows how to punish and cause pain. Throughout the course of the story the father-daughter dynamic is explored in depth, as Marianne struggles to make sense of her relationship with him. One of the main elements to draw me into a book, is a strong female protagonist with a powerful narrative voice. Marianne was exactly that and I became very invested in her journey and what lay ahead of her.

There are some terrific secondary characters in the book too. One of my absolute favourites was Bronn, who was her childhood friend on-board The Maiden, until he became her father's most valuable assassin. There's also Grace, who is another female member of the crew and who veers hot and cold a lot with her emotions. Plus Prince Torin who it took me a while to warm-up too then suddenly became amazing about half-way through the book. Complicated relationships are actually quite a strong characteristic in the story, probably because everyone seems to be hiding something. Also, a word of warning. It might not be safe to get too attached to anyone because literally every character in the book is in danger at some point.

I thought that the world-building in the novel was particularly impressive. Each of the islands is unique because of it's setting and landscape, which is reflected in the people that live there. I felt like I could visualise each of them perfectly and I enjoyed the exploration of many of these as I found out more about them and their history.

Hogan interweaves lots of action and adventure into the story which is laced with traces of magic and blushes of romance. I hope we get to find out more about the magical mythology that was touched upon as I found this really intriguing. I have a feeling that there is lots more of that to come.

'Viper' delivered on every level and if there's one book that I want everyone to read this year, this is it. I'm so happy to see pirates emerging as a genre within YA novels as I will literally devour anything in this niche. Bex Hogan's debut though is certainly a novel that is hard to beat. I was beyond thrilled to find out that the second book in the series will be called 'Venom' but not so happy to discover that I've got to wait until 2020 for it to be released. Until then, I'd better dig out my pirate boots.

Review: 13 Minutes - Sarah Pinborough

13 Minutes by Sarah Pinborough, published by Orion on 18th February 2016

Goodreads synopsis:
I was dead for 13 minutes.

I don't remember how I ended up in the icy water but I do know this - it wasn't an accident and I wasn't suicidal.

They say you should keep your friends close and your enemies closer, but when you're a teenage girl, it's hard to tell them apart. My friends love me, I'm sure of it. But that doesn't mean they didn't try to kill me. Does it?

Review:
'13 Minutes’ by Sarah Pinborough is a dark and captivating tale, inspired by a true life event. I picked it up with the intention of reading a few chapters and ended up finishing the whole book in one sitting. The plot is gripping and the various twists and turns throughout the story ensured that I was constantly kept on my toes. The killer twist near the end was absolutely brilliant and made me want to turn back to the first page and read everything again but in a new light.

The story highlights the fraught teenage friendships that are formed in high school, the power of the Queen Bee and the changing dynamics of female friends. Who’s in and who’s out is all important. With echoes of ‘Pretty Little Liars’, the book centres around a pivotal event which unfolds right at the start of the story. The near drowning of Natasha who is found just in time to prevent disaster, but who was technically dead for 13 minutes, is the mystery that gradually unravels. With no memory of what happened leading up to the event, did she slip or was she pushed? And who would have wanted to cause her harm?  

Much of the story that follows is told by her former best friend Becca. Pushed aside by Tasha when she formed a friendship with two other girls, Becca is gradually drawn back into Tasha’s circle by a series of circumstances. The dynamic between the two girls is interesting and well written. I liked the chess analogy and the way that you are never quite sure if they really are friends or adversaries.

I enjoyed the structure of the book itself, and the way that the characters have to work backwards to make sense of what really happened. The addition of notes from Tasha’s journal and the case notes of the Detective on her case, also added an extra layer to the narrative.

There are some jaw dropping moments in the book and a dark edge to the plot. It reminded me a little of ‘Suicide Notes of Beautiful Girls’ by Lynn Weingarten, but although it had similarities, it was still a unique and original read.

Pick this one up if you are looking for a gritty, captivating suspense tale about the dangers of trusting your friends too much.

Review: Black Horizon - M.G. Harris

Black Horizon by M.G. Harris, published by Orion on 2nd April 2015

Goodreads synopsis:
After the tragic death of his father, Ben Carrington's mother, Caroline, teams up with entrepreneur, Jason Truby, to form an elite, top-secret international rescue organization - Gemini Force.

But when disaster strikes and Caroline is killed on a rescue mission, 16-year-old Ben is determined to continue her work with the Gemini Force team. As Ben fights to earn his place, can he prove he has what it takes to face dangerous situations and save lives?

Review:
This is the first book in the Gemini Force 1 series, written by M.G. Harris from an original idea by Gerry Anderson, creator of Thunderbirds.  The story is about teenager Ben Carrington, who as the start of the book is mourning the loss of his father in a tragic mountaineering accident.  His mother, also a top climber, decides to team up with Jason Truby, a wealthy entrepreneur who has set up a top secret rescue squad organisation called Gemini Force.  Ben desperately wants to become part of the team but first he has to prove himself. 

The opening of the book throws the reader right into the action as a dangerous situation develops involving Ben and his mother.  This sets the tone for the rest of the story which is packed full of thrilling danger and adventure.  'Black Horizon' was a great read because I love books which are about teenagers doing incredible things and exhibiting amazing levels of bravery and this fit the bill perfectly.  I don't think it was as engaging as some other series I've read in the same vein but I liked the concept and I think it has a lot of potential to get better and better.

So what would I like to see more of?  The character of Ben could be developed and polished.  He does have to deal with some really tough situations in the book, as well as several personal tragedies, but I didn't warm to him as much as I was expecting to.  He is obviously used to getting his own way and that's one of the things that made me think of him as a bit spoilt.  I would also love to see more of some of the other characters who were a bit one-dimensional.  Plus, the action could be ramped up another notch and the boundaries pushed a little more.   

I do like the fact that this book was originally made possible because of a kickstarter campaign by Gerry Anderson fans.  That's the power of readers for you! 

The second book will be published later this year and will be called 'Ghost Mine'. 

Review: The Fall - Bethany Griffin

The Fall by Bethany Griffin, published by Orion Children's Books on 2nd October 2014 

Goodreads synopsis:
Madeline and her twin brother Roderick have the Usher name, the Usher house - and the Usher disease. Something is wrong with the family's blood - and it seems to have spread to the house itself. Sometimes Madeline even thinks that the house is alive... When Roderick is sent away to school, the house seems to want revenge on the one member of the Usher family left behind: Madeline herself.

Review:
This book is a retelling of Edgar Allen Poe's 'The Fall of the House of Usher'.  I wasn't familiar at all with the original so I really had no idea how the story was going to unfold and after the fantastic opening which had me hook, line and sinker, I was prepared for anything to happen!

The story involves twins Madeline and Roderick Usher, who are inflicted with a curse which has blighted the lives of all Ushers before them.  When Roderick is sent away to school, Madeline is left alone in the house which seems determined to have it's revenge on her.

Bethany Griffin's personification of the house was excellent.  It seemed to ooze maleficence and evil appeared to seep through the walls and floorboards.  It was extremely creepy and incredibly atmospheric.  It's certainly not a house that I would want to spend the night in.

The narrative structure was unusual and made the story a little difficult to follow at times.  Madeline recounts events but each chapter jumps around to when she is at a different age.  This meant that the plot unfolded at a slow pace.  Because of this I found that my attention wandered in the middle and as it's a fairly long book, I kept waiting for something more to happen. 

Deliciously gothic and mysterious, I was puzzled by some aspects of the story but wanted to keep reading because I felt like the payoff at the end was going to be worth it.  I won't give anything away apart from to say that this is a book which will keep you thinking long after the final pages.  I'm still not sure that I have everything straight in my head!  I'd like to read Poe's original story now as well, so that I can compare the two.  

If you're a fan of the gothic and the bizarre then I would recommend that you give 'The Fall' a read.

Review: Let's Bake - Cathryn Dresser

Let's Bake by Cathryn Dresser, published by Orion Children's Books on 22nd May 2014

Goodreads synopsis:
From parties to picnics, lunchboxes to the last day of school, and with Halloween and summer holidays in between - here you'll find 52 easy, delicious recipes for beginner bakers, and fool-proof family baking for every occasion.

Step-by-step instructions, photographs, and all the tricky bits explained in a fun and friendly way - there's no one better than Cathryn Dresser to get mums, dads and kids baking together.

Review:
I don't review many non-fiction books on my blog but anyone that knows me, knows that I am a huge baking fan and am absolutely hooked on the Great British Bake Off.  I was extremely excited to get my hands on Cathryn's new book as I was rooting for her to win Bake Off season 3.  It's great to see the success she's had since appearing on the show and I couldn't wait to have a go at making all of her lovely recipes.

'Let's Bake' is aimed at encouraging baking with your family.  There are recipes to suit all levels of bakers, from those just starting out to those who feel more confident in the kitchen.  The book is divided into four sections, each one encompassing a different season and incorporating some gorgeous seasonal recipes.  For example in Autumn when the blackberry bushes are straining under the weight of all those ripe, juicy berries, why not have a go at making Cathryn's drop scones with bramble butter and fresh blackberries.  I know I'll be trying this one out!

Each recipe is very easy to follow and the layout is extremely clear with handy step-by-step photos to lend a helping hand.  Even the more challenging recipes look achievable with some handy tips to ensure that your all your bakes turn out perfect. 

Some of my favourite recipes so far include the malty moon custard biscuits, the gorgeous easy feta cheese triangles and the sweetcorn and chorizo cornbread muffins.  I would recommend following Cathryn's advice on the latter and eating them warm straight out of the oven.  I also can't wait to make the beautiful white rabbit cake, as well as the cheese and chive biscuits in the shape of little mice.  I think children would love these.   

A round of applause to Cathryn for writing such a wonderful baking book.  My copy is already splattered with flour but isn't that always a sign of a well-used and well-loved recipe book.  I'm looking forward to whipping up lots more of these delicious looking recipes and I'm sure my family will enjoy eating them!        

Review: Race the Wind - Lauren St John

Race the Wind by Lauren St John, published by Orion Children's Books on 1st April 2013

Goodreads synopsis:
When Casey Blue's Badminton victory earns her and Storm an invitation to the prestigious Kentucky Three Day Event, it is a dream come true. But that dream is about to turn into a nightmare. After her father is arrested for a crime Casey is convinced he didn't commit, she finds herself the victim of a vicious blackmailer. To make matters worse, Storm is behaving like the wild horse he once was. Faced with losing everything she loves, she needs the help of her farrier boyfriend, Peter, to win in Kentucky. But is he for her or against her?

Review:
'Race the Wind' is the excellent follow-up to Lauren St John's 'One Dollar Horse', following the story of Casey Blue and the horse she rescued from the knackers yard, Storm Warning.  After her success at the Badminton Horse Trials, Casey has an automatic shot at the Kentucky Three Day Event and the seemingly unobtainable Grand Slam.  Things are finally looking up for her, when her father is suddenly arrested on suspicion of murder and Casey becomes entangled in trying to clear his name.

Although 'Race the Wind' is quite a different book to the first in the series, the focus is still on the wonderful connection between Casey and her horse.  Their relationship is at the heart of the story and I enjoyed seeing the partnership they share flourish even further.  There are a couple of short passages throughout the book where events are narrated through the eyes of Storm Warning and these served to enhance the bond that girl and horse have.  They may have their ups and downs but they can always count on each other.

I loved seeing Casey's grit and determination to become as good as she can be, in her quest to win the elusive Grand Slam.  She starts working out with a trainer to improve her overall fitness level and some of what she does sounds pretty painful!  This shows what all committed sports people put themselves through to try and achieve their goals. 

I was slightly disappointed not to see as much of Peter, who Casey became romantically involved with at the end of the first book.  He's still involved in the story but their relationship becomes quite tenuous and they certainly have some issues to overcome. 

Overall, this was an enjoyable read and will appeal hugely to horse-lovers.  When I was young, I used to love reading the Jill's Pony books by Ruby Ferguson, as well as the Saddle Club series by Bonnie Bryant.  A whole new generation of horse-mad teens would do as well picking up this series by Lauren St John, to experience the thrills of Casey Blue and her horse Storm Warning.

The third and final part of the trilogy 'Fire Storm' will be published by Orion in 2014. 

Review: North of Nowhere - Liz Kessler

North of Nowhere by Liz Kessler, published by Orion Children's Books on 17th January 2013

Goodreads synopsis:
When Mia's grandfather disappears, Mia and her mother immediately rush down to stay with her grandmother and offer support. With no friends and no internet access in the little seaside village where her grandparents live, Mia is bored and lonely--until she makes friends with Dee, the daughter of a fisherman from a nearby island, and Peter, who is on holiday with his parents. But Mia's grandad is still missing, and actually meeting face to face with Dee is proving surprisingly difficult. Mia becomes determined to find out what's going on, but the truth is much more mysterious than she ever imagined...

Review:
I haven't read anything by Liz Kessler before but when this beautiful little hardback book arrived, I couldn't wait to start reading it.  I'm always looking for new British authors to try and I'm pleased to say that after thoroughly enjoying 'North of Nowhere', I'll definitely be hunting down some of Kessler's other books. 

Set in the small fishing village of Porthaven, Mia and her mother arrive to stay with Mia's Gran after her Grandad mysteriously disappears.  Initially friendless and unhappy, Mia eventually makes friends with a girl called Dee who she hasn't met in person but communicates with through Dee's diary. 

The story is unpredictable and changeable like the seas that surround Porthaven.  Things aren't always as they first appear and to a degree you need to suspense your disbelief, particularly near the end when things take an unexpectedd turn.  There's an element of magic about the book which I loved and I thought it wa beautifully written.

Infinitely intriguing, I was hooked by 'North of Nowhere' and impressed by the very clever conclusion of the story which didn't disappoint in the slightest with it's imaginative ending.  I had no idea what was going to happen and although not everything was explained this didn't matter in the slightest.    

I was intrigued to read that the story was actually inspired by the real village of Hallsands in South Devon which collapsed into the sea.  Due to terrible gales and high tides, only one house remained habitable in the village.  It's terrible to think of people losing their homes and the hardship and heartache they must have gone through.     

'North of Nowhere' is the perfect book to read on a stormy night, curled up indoors with the fire crackling.  I was gripped by Mia's story and the mystery of Luffsands.  This was a truly magical and captivating read which I will definitely be recommending to everyone I know. 

Review: Operation Bunny - Sally Gardner

Operation Bunny (Wings #1) by Sally Gardner, published by Orion Children's Books on 4th October 2012

Goodreads synopsis:
Emily Vole makes headline news in the first weeks of her life, when she is found in an abandoned hatbox in Stanstead Airport. Then, only a few years later, her neighbour Mrs String dies leaving Emily a mysterious inheritance: an old shop, a small bunch of golden keys and a cat called Fidget. In the shop Emily discovers drawers full of fairy wings and the beginning of an adventure of a lifetime as the old Fairy Detective Agency comes back to life. It is up to Emily to reopen the shop, and recall the fairies to duty. Together they must embark on their first mystery to find Emily Vole's real parents and do battle with their great fairy-snatching enemy, Harpula.

Review:
This is the first book in Sally Gardner's new series and the first case of the Fairy Detective Agency.  It's a beautifully packaged book with fabulous illustrations by David Roberts which really bring the story to life.

Combining some magical elements reminiscent of well loved fairy tales with a dark centre which will appeal hugely to readers who like it when children save the day and their wicked parents get their comeuppance, 'Operation Bunny' has been described as reminiscent of some of Roald Dahl's best loved stories.  While I think this book is actually quite different, I can understand how comparisons could be made between the two.

Sally Gardner's tale features heroine Emily Vole.  Emily has an incredible adventure when she becomes acquainted with her next door neighbour Miss String and her human-like cat Fidget.  A whole new magical world opens up for her and her life is literally turned upside down.  From then on, readers should expect just about anything to happen.  There are pink, talking bunny rabbits, fairies, witches, zombie children and magic lamps.  Suspend your disbelief because this story will carry you away from reality and into a world of enchantment and adventure. 

I found this book a quirky and entertaining read.  Emily Vole is an adorable and likable heroine and this is a story spiced with secrets and magic which will appeal hugely to younger readers.

Review: The One Dollar Horse - Lauren St John

The One Dollar Horse by Lauren St John, published by Orion Children's Books on 1st March 2012

Goodreads synopsis:
Fifteen year old Casey Blue lives in East London’s grimmest tower block and volunteers at a local riding school, but her dream is to win the world’s greatest Three Day Event: the Badminton Horse Trials. When she rescues a starving, half-wild horse, she’s convinced that the impossible can be made possible. But she has reckoned without the consequences of her father’s criminal record, or the distraction of a boy with melty, dark eyes, with whom she refuses to fall in love. Casey learns the hard way that no matter how high you jump, or how fast you gallop, you can never outrun the past.

Review:
Horse mad children and teens will love this story about a young girl who rescues a horse from the knacker's yard and then goes on to ride him in the Badminton Horse Trials, the world's greatest three day event.  They will also love the gorgeous hardcover copy with shocking pink edged pages.  This book practically begs you to pick it up!

Casey Blue loves horses.  After she saves Storm Warning from near death, a bond is formed between horse and girl that nothing can break.  Casey has had a tough life after her father was sent to prison for his part in a burglary but she's determined and has a dream that she'll do anything to reach.

When I was younger I used to love reading books about horses.  I was a huge fan of The Saddle Club series by Bonnie Bryant and was always on the lookout for new titles.  This book brought back many happy memories of my horse-mad days and I'm sure will be well loved by today's audience.  I really liked the main character Casey and enjoyed the way the book explored her relationship with her father, as well as the romance which develops between her and the Farrier's son Peter, who notices something different and special about her from the moment he first sets eyes on her.

Lauren St John has really managed to capture the love of horses that many of the characters share and the excitement of competing on one of the greatest stages of them all.  It was extremely enjoyable watching Casey overcoming so much adversity and so many obstacles and the book makes you believe that anything is possible and that dreams really can come true. 

The second book in the trilogy entitled 'Race the Wind' will be published in March 2013 and follows Casey on the next step of her adventure.