It's no big secret that I really enjoy reading Cathy's fostering memoirs and have read all of her books. Cathy is a very experienced foster carer and has fostered and cared for more than 150 children. So when Haper Colins kindly offered me Cathy's new book to read and review. I couldn't wait. 'Cruel To Be Kind' is released on 7th September this year and is also available to pre order on amazon.


Pages: 336
Genre: Personal memoir/fostering/true story. 

Genre: Young Adult Contemporary
Pages: 303

"Seventeen-year-old Flora Banks has no short-term memory. Her mind resets itself several times a day, and has since the age of ten, when the tumor that was removed from Flora's brain took with it her ability to make new memories. That is, until she kisses Drake, her best friend's boyfriend, the night before he leaves town. Miraculously, this one memory breaks through Flora's fractured mind, and sticks. Flora is convinced that Drake is responsible for restoring her memory and making her whole again. So when an encouraging email from Drake suggests she meet him on the other side of the world, Flora knows with certainty that this is the first step toward reclaiming her life.

With little more than the words "be brave" inked into her skin, and written reminders of who she is and why her memory is so limited, Flora sets off on an impossible journey to Svalbard, Norway, the land of the midnight sun, determined to find Drake. But from the moment she arrives in the arctic, nothing is quite as it seems, and Flora must "be brave" if she is ever to learn the truth about herself, and to make it safely home."

My thoughts:

This book follows the story of a young girl who is in an horrific accident and results in her loosing her memory. She doesn't remember anything that happened after she was 1- years old. She's now seventeen. She writes notes and writes on her hands and arms to remind herself of things. One night she goes to a party that she remembers nothing about and then something happens with 'Drake' and she remembers that one memory! With the words 'Be Brave' wrote on her skin and all the reminders she writes down... She remembers! She emails her brother who is very sick in France and the bond between Flora and her brother is just lovely.
The story was easy to read and follow. It is a little bit repetitive but not in a bad way! I could have easily read this book in one sitting. All in, I think it took me around 4 hours to read. I really enjoyed it and rated it four out of five stars on goodreads.

What have you been reading lately? Do you have any recommendations you think I should read? Let me know in the comments!

Sarah xXx

I've done really well with my reading so far this year. I've read a total of thirteen books so far this year. Some short and some longer books. I've stayed up far too late reading & I've read rather a lot whilst I've been on the bus. I wrote a blog post, sharing -some tips- on how to make time to read more.
 I haven't wrote a blog post for a while and I have rather a lot to say but I thought I'd start with some books I've read lately and highly recommend!


In no particular order (because I can't remember what I order I read them in, haha) here are  the books I've read so far this year.

1. Haunted Liverpool 1 by Tom Slemen - A book of short paranormal/spooky/odd/explainable true stories. I really enjoy reading paranormal, spooky stories but I found myself learning a far bit about the past and history of Liverpool in Tom Slemen's books. 
2. Haunted Liverpool 2 by Tom Slemen - Again. A book of short, paranormal and explainable stories. The story where the guy slips back into time... I found that story quite fascinating. 
3. Tressa The 12 year old mum - You may remember this story in the news a few years back. Another true story about a young girl who becomes pregnant at the age 12. Heartbreaking. Truly heartbreaking. 
4. Nobody's Son by Cathy Glass - A true fostering memoir by Cathy Glass. I really enjoy Cathy's books. There's no one I haven't read. Nobody's son tells the story of a young boy who ends up in Cathy's care after being moved from one foster home to another. Needless to say he hasn't had the best of starts. A happy ending in the end and a very emotional read. (Thanks to Harper Collins for sending me this book to review. You can read my full review here) 
5. Between Shades Of Grey by Ruta Sepetys - A re-read. I read this book again because I read the book 'Salt To Sea' and between Shades Of Grey is connected to this book. Historical Fiction that could so easily have been real and so very well researched. Set in 1941, Lina and her family are sent to a camp 6,500 miles away. A harrowing story based on true events. It's truly very sad. Very well written and one of the best books I have ever read. I believe there is a movie coming out some time this year based on this book. 
6. Where she went by Gayle Forman - The sequel to 'If I Stay' A young adult contemporary read. Three years after Mia's devastating accident, she randomly meets up with Adam again...  The first book (If I stay) is from Mia's point of view but 'Where she went' is from Adams oint of view. I didn'f really enjoy this book as much as the first but I am glad I read it! 
7. The Missing by C.L Taylor. Fifteen year old Billy goes mising in the middle of the night, Claire (Billy's mum) blames herself. She does everything she can to possibly find him, putting up poster, T.V appeals and so on... I found this book a little on the slow side and not a book I would personally read again but it had a good plot and the characters ended up being well developed. 
8. Those who Save us by Jenna Blum. Another historical fiction story. Trudy is driven by the guilt of her heritage and is now a professor who un covers the truly harrowing story of her mothers past during the second world war in Nazi occupied Germany. I am really glad I read this book, it's beautifully written and I felt quite connected to Trudy. 
9. My life next door by Huntley Fiztpatrick - Young adult contemporary. Samantha Reed falls in love with the boy next door from the moment he climbs up to her bedroom window, everythign changes. Her mother will never approve. A lovely lighthearted (mostly), fluffy read. 
10. The Secret Of Nightingale Wood by Lucy Strange. - This is actually a children's book that I found in a charity shop for twenty pence. The best twenty pence I have ever spent! I'm just going to add the blurb here... "1919. Henry has moved to the countryside with her parents and her baby sister, Piglet – all still scarred by the death of her brother. Alone in her head, she begins to explore her surroundings, encouraged by her only friends – characters from her favourite books. Nobody much notices when she wanders into the woods at the bottom of the garden and meets Moth, a striking witch-like woman. Together they form a bond that could help Henry save her family." I rated this book four stars, I really enjoyed this read! 
11. The couple next door by Shari Lepena - I reviewed this book here.
12. The baby laundry for unmarried mothers by Angela Patrick. This book is a true story about a young lady who becomes pregnant in 1963 and is sent to a laundry in Essex as she is an unmarried mother. A few weeks after she has given birth her baby is put up for adoption. Angela really wanted to keep her baby... 30 years later her son contacts her and a reunion is arranged. A truly heartbreaking story. 
13. The Orphans Tale by  Pam Jenoff - "A powerful novel of friendship set in a traveling circus during World War II, The Orphan's Tale introduces two extraordinary women and their harrowing stories of sacrifice and survival" This book is fiction but was very well researched and some parts of the story is based on true events. I rated this book five stars. Beautifully written and easy to read, despite the story being based on very sad and upsetting events. It's a page turner! 
14. The Sun Is Also A Star by Nicola Yoon. This book is very relevant to today. It's beautifully written but I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would, you can read my full book review 'The Sun Is Also A Star' here.

So those are the books I have read so far this year (although I'm not sure why Goodreads is counting that I have only read ten books when in actual fact, I've read fourteen!) I am currently reading 'The Hospital' By Barbara O'Hare. There are a few books coming out this year that I'm very excited to read! Especially the sequel to 'My Life Next Door' 

If you have any recommendations of books you think I might like, do leave me a comment with the title. I am always looking for book recommendations and as you can probably tell, I'll give anything a read! I like all genres, I have really widened my options as to what I read the last year or so.

What have you been reading lately? Or what books are you most excited to read this year? 

Sarah xXx 

Pages: 320
Genre: Mystery, Suspense, Thriller (fiction)

"You never know what's happening on the other side of the wall.

Your neighbour told you that she didn't want your six-month-old daughter at the dinner party. Nothing personal, she just couldn't stand her crying.

Your husband said it would be fine. After all, you only live next door. You'll have the baby monitor and you'll take it in turns to go back every half hour.

Your daughter was sleeping when you checked on her last. But now, as you race up the stairs in your deathly quiet house, your worst fears are realized. She's gone.

You've never had to call the police before. But now they're in your home, and who knows what they'll find there.

What would you be capable of, when pushed past your limit?"

I received this book for Christmas and what a lovely gift it was, too! It's been on my 'TBR' list for a while and I couldn't wait to get stuck into it. 
The couple next door follows the story of a young married couple who have a six month old daughter. One night they attend a dinner party with the neighbours while there baby sleeps next door.  They return only to find the baby gone. She is not in her crib. With lots of twists and turns, this book certainly kept me in suspense! What exactly has happened to there baby daughter Cora? And who is responsible? Will the police get to the bottom of it?
This book is written so simply and is very easy to read and follow. A fast paced story and certainly a page turner! I could easily have read this book in one sitting! I really liked it and rated it five stars on goodreads. 

What have you been reading lately? 

Sarah xXx

The first book I read this month was Behind Closed Doors by B.A Paris. I picked up a copy of this book for 20p in a charity shop and I'm so glad I did, I loved it! It's a physiological Thriller that I found very hard to put down, it's very well written in my opinion and covers some really difficult topics. I rated this book four stars on goodreads. You can read my full review here.


Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay a story based in World War II and follows the story of a ten year old girl who is brutally arrested with her family by the French police in the
Vel' d'Hiv' round up.
"Paris, July 1942: Sarah, a ten year-old girl, is brutally arrested with her family by the French police in the Vel' d'Hiv' roundup, but not before she locks her younger brother in a cupboard in the family's apartment, thinking that she will be back within a few hours.
Paris, May 2002: On Vel' d'Hiv's 60th anniversary, journalist Julia Jarmond is asked to write an article about this black day in France's past. Through her contemporary investigation, she stumbles onto a trail of long-hidden family secrets that connect her to Sarah. Julia finds herself compelled to retrace the girl's ordeal, from that terrible term in the Vel d'Hiv', to the camps, and beyond. As she probes into Sarah's past, she begins to question her own place in France, and to reevaluate her marriage and her life."

Historical fiction and brutally sad. This book is wonderfully written, I felt so connected to the characters, it's very a good read. I found is difficult to put down. I'm a huge fan of historical fiction and have read many books, this one is one of the best historical fiction books I've ever read. I felt incredibly sorry for Sarah and her family. I rated this book 5 stars. 

Naomi's room by Jonathan Aycliffe
"On Christmas Eve, four-year-old Naomi Hillenbrand disappears from her father's side in a crowded toy store; on Christmas Day, her mutilated body is discovered in a field. But a part of Naomi remains, unwilling or unable to leave this world. Ghostly photographs capture her playing with two other little girls dressed in Victorian garb while a sinister man in black watches...watches them all.

Charles Hillenbrand is tormented by grief. When sinister whispers in the night begin to taunt him, he tries to uncover the evil truth behind Naomi's death. But long-buried secrets await him and threaten to take him beyond the brink of sanity, to a place where he could lose his very soul." 

Naomi was taken on a busy Christmas eve in the middle of a busy shopping centre... Disappeared without a trace. Naomi's father is haunted by her... This book keeps popping up everywhere and so I thought I would give it a read. Being a paranormal/mystery/horror themed book I thought I would really like it. I didn't. It's frustrating in places and I felt like the story was dragging on. It's a really good plot but, I don't know... I feel like this book was missing something, I'm just not really sure what. It is scary and creepy I guess but it just wasn't for me personally. 

Salt To The Sea by Ruta Sepetys Is a book that I have been meaning to read for a while. Another historical fiction book and yet based on true stories/events that happened during world war two. This book is also connected to "Between Shades Of Grey" by the same author. (I recommend reading between shades of grey first but you don't NEED to read that first in order for Salt To the Sea to make sense. The author is very clever the way she has connected these stories and characters.) Salt To The Sea follows the story of four main characters who are trying to escape Nazi Germany. Beautifully written, cleverly done, it's heartbreaking but it is a very good book and I highly recommend it. I wrote a review on Salt To The Sea here. 

What have you been reading lately? Or what's on your reading list? Let me know in the comments.

Sarah xXx

 

"A masterpiece of spellbinding suspense, where evil wears the most innocent face of all…

Rosemary Woodhouse and her struggling actor husband Guy move into the Bramford, an old New York City apartment building with an ominous reputation and mostly elderly residents. Neighbors Roman and Minnie Castavet soon come nosing around to welcome the Woodhouses to the building, and despite Rosemary's reservations about their eccentricity and the weird noises that she keeps hearing, her husband takes a special shine to them. Shortly after Guy lands a plum Broadway role, Rosemary becomes pregnant, and the Castavets start taking a special interest in her welfare. As the sickened Rosemary becomes increasingly isolated, she begins to suspect that the Castavets' circle is not what it seems…" 

Genre: Fiction/Classics/Horror
Pages: 246 

A young couple 'Rosemary & Guy' move into a well known, popular apartment in New York City. The old tenant who lives there before them passed away in a coma but for some reason she blocked off a storage closet.. And what is with all the herbs she was growing? Rosemary spends a lot of time decorating and arranging the apartment to her liking. They quickly become friends with an elderly couple who also live in the same apartment block - The Castavets. When 'Hutch' Rosemary's friend finds out where she and her husband is living, he explains the sinister, creepy background that comes with the building. Like, the sisters who use to eat children and the witch craft that surrounds the building. It doesn't put Rosemary and Guy off though. Guy ends up being offered a really good role ion Broadway. Rosemary starts feeling very isolated and she starts hearing weird, strange noises.... She suspects there is more to the Castavets than they're letting on! And then Rosemary falls pregnant....

This book! Where do I start? I read this book fairly quickly because I really wanted to watch the movie. It's easy to read and is written really well. Right from the start though, it seemed a bit strange. A young girl commits suicide not long after Rosemary has befriended her... And the Castavet's seem really... Different and strange. Mrs Castavet is nosy and just plain strange in my opinion. When Rosemary falls pregnant, the Castavets help Rosemary all they can, they even recommend a top doctor and insist that Rosemary sees him. Mrs Castavet makes Rosemary a special drink every day, full of vitamins and goodness for the baby. Hutch, Rosemary's friend tragically goes into a coma..  A lot happens in this book, it's fast paced and hard to put down. I already knew the ending and I'm not sure why? (I think someone had perhaps told me about the movie or book a long time ago) I realised this half way through the book but even so it was still good. 
I rated this book 4 stars.

The movie is also fairly true to the book. I liked the movie, it was equally as creepy as the book! The acting was amazing in my opinion. 

Have you read or seen the movie? What have you been reading lately? :) 

Sarah xXx 

P.S My friend Laura and I have created a Bookish group over on Facebook, if you're a book blogger or post about books on Instagram/social media or maybe just would like to join in book discussions, feel free to come over and join:  Bookish Worms Facebook Group
 

"The day after they moved in, Coraline went exploring....
In Coraline's family's new flat are twenty-one windows and fourteen doors. Thirteen of the doors open and close.
The fourteenth is locked, and on the other side is only a brick wall, until the day Coraline unlocks the door to find a passage to another flat in another house just like her own.
Only it's different.
At first, things seem marvelous in the other flat. The food is better. The toy box is filled with wind-up angels that flutter around the bedroom, books whose pictures writhe and crawl and shimmer, little dinosaur skulls that chatter their teeth. But there's another mother, and another father, and they want Coraline to stay with them and be their little girl. They want to change her and never let her go.
Other children are trapped there as well, lost souls behind the mirrors. Coraline is their only hope of rescue. She will have to fight with all her wits and all the tools she can find if she is to save the lost children, her ordinary life, and herself.
Critically acclaimed and award-winning author Neil Gaiman will delight readers with his first novel for all ages."

Genre: Children's/Fantasy/Fiction
Pages: 208

This is actually children's (middle grade) book but I really wanted to read this book followed by watching the movie. My friend Laura recommended this book to me as it's one of her favourite books and I am really glad I read it. I really liked it a lot. It didn't take too long to read because it is a children's book with a couple of illustrations here and there.
The story follows a little girl 'Coraline'. She has just moved into a really big, old house with her mum and dad. The house is converted into apartments and have other people living in them. One miserable wet day, Coraline goes exploring in the house and finds a little door. Behind the door is a brick wall. That is exactly how and where the creepiness begins...
A great book, full of little twists and turns. Creative, witty yet quite dark, too! I really enjoyed this book. I know that my middle son will also enjoy reading this book.
I rated this book 4.5 stars.

I also really liked the movie although it is different to the book. The extra's that have been added into the movie fit perfectly and I'm not sure if I prefer the movie to the book or verse visa. I liked both equally. 

I can't wait to read more Neil Gaiman books. I enjoy the way he tells stories.

Have you read Coraline? Or perhaps seen the movie?

Sarah xXx

I was sent a copy of Casey Watson's new book 'Runaway Girl' to review.
Casey Watson is a specialised foster carer/ Casey and her husband Mike have fostered many children over the years and Casey shares her fostering memoirs with us by writing books! Casey has children of her own as well as grandchildren.
I have read most of Casey's other books, too and couldn't wait to get stuck into 'Runaway Girl'



Genre: True life/Memoir
Pages: 304
Release date: 20th October 2016.

"14 year old Adrianna arrives on Casey’s doorstep with no possessions, no English, and no explanation. It will be a few weeks before Casey starts getting the shocking answers to her questions….


Brought to Casey as a short term emergency placement, 14 year old Adrianna arrives with nothing but her gratitude. Having ‘turned herself in’ to a social services office some hundred miles away, she has no possessions, no English and, apparently, no history – not that she’s willing to share, anyway. She is a beautiful young Polish girl, with the bearing of a ballerina, but is terrified, malnourished and unwell. And, having slept rough for some time (the little they do know about her) she spends much of her first days with Watsons asleep in bed.


Growing concerned about Adrianna’s wellbeing, and her persistent high temperature, Casey decides to call in the GP. But, to her surprise, Adrianna becomes almost hysterical about being examined and, given her refusal to talk – even via the interpretor they’ve brought in for her – Casey’s fostering antennae begin twitching. Where has she come from? And why is she so terrified to be touched? What has happened to make her so ill and scared?


It will be a few weeks before Casey starts getting answers to these questions. Shocking answers; ones that throw up a whole host of new questions and the beginnings of a journey to find justice for Adrianna, and, more importantly, a future, and a home…" 

My thoughts:

Adrianna is a polish girl who ends up in an emergency care placement fostered by Casey and Mike. Casey also has another youngster 'Tyler' living with them, too! She knows very little English and very little is known about Adrianna. Usually, Casey and Mike foster children that have behavioral issues as that is what Casey and Mike specialise in. However, Adrianna doesn't quite fit, she's a good kid, independent and doesn't cause any problems. Casey's instincts tell her there's more to Adrianna than meets the eye. But what exactly?
Adrianna is really quite poorly when she first arrives in the Watson household, Casey calls the doctor although Adrianna refuses to let the doctor touch her. Both Casey and the doctor instincts tell them something isn't quite right with Adrianna. Adrianna helps out with a dance class that Casey's daughter in law works with as it appears Adrianna knows ballet! Adrianna takes a turn for the worst and passes out, an ambulance is called and Casey rushes to the hospital. Exactly why has Adrianna passed out? What is wrong with her? Adrianna connects with a polish nurse and Casey is in for shock! Eventually she gets answers and she truly is there for Adrianna, she does everything she can to help her....
Casey does learn that Adrianna is not 14 years old but is indeed sixteen years old and is also a victim of trafficking (as the cover suggests) but why has she kept the truth from Casey and the authorities? Will Adrianna be in some kind of trouble?
I'll leave this here as I don't want to give away any spoilers! 

Runaway girl is another brilliantly written book by Casey, it's easy to read and relate to as Casey is so down to earth. I love Casey's sense of humor and her 'Simples'. I love the way Casey writes and tells the story and although some parts are very sad because it's so horrifically hard to imagine it is still easy to read because of the way Casey writes. I also felt I got to know Tyler (the young lad who is also under Casey and Mikes care) more in this book.
Runaway Girl is due to be released on 20th October 2016. You can pre-order 'Runaway Girl' by Casey Watson on amazon. This book is available on kindle (£5.99) and paperback (£7.99).

If you enjoy Cathy Glass books you'll certainly enjoy Casey Watson's books, too. 

I rated this book five stars on goodreads.

What have you been reading lately?

Sarah xXx

(I received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own, honest, personal opinions. I was not paid for this post.)

A question I get asked a lot is "How do you find time to read so much?" The truth is I make time. Making time for myself is important. Life is stressful and loosing myself in a good book helps me unwind and relax. I love reading, it keeps me sane. I have three kids and a household to look after so making time for myself can be tricky and is not always possible - During the six weeks holidays I didn't have a lot of time to read. I often pick my books up and two pages in, I'll put it down because the kids need me or I'll be distracted with every day life and I don't pick the book up again for a few days (or sometimes - weeks).Take this past weekend for example. I was poorly with some kind of cold/flu/throat thing and I haven't read at all since Friday morning. I just haven't had it in me to focus on a book. I'll read again though, when I'm fully better and can focus better. I also suffer with anxiety and sometimes (not all the time though) I find reading can really help me relax.

Here are some of the things I do which allow me time to read.

1. I read a lot on the bus. I don't drive and I live in the middle of nowhere. At least once a week I catch the bus to a bigger town, with a better supermarket (I can't afford my local 'supermarket' prices) which is a forty minute bus ride. I'm a fairly fast reader and I get a lot of reading done on the bus! I usually read my kindle on the bus. The kids are usually at school, so I have a Good opportunity to read. I'm gonna take it!
2. I stay up way too late. And then regret it the next day when my alarm goes off at 6am. This is probably the time I read most if I'm honest. Still though, if it means I can read, it's worth it. I think. I love reading when the house is quiet and peaceful. Sometimes I find it hard to sleep (especially when it's too hot), I'll pick up my book and read, it makes me sleepy eventually.
3. I take breaks during the day. After I've done most of the housework and I sit down for lunch, I'll read for twenty minutes before cracking on with more chores. It has been known where I've been so engrossed in the book I'm reading, I have got a bit carried away and not realised the time. Then I find myself rushing to get the chores done!
4. Reading in the bath!! Yup, I read while I'm in the bath. I always fear I'll drop my kindle in the bath so I pop it inside a zip lock bag. It can be tricky "turning" (swiping) the page but it works! Kind of. I never can have a bath in peace, I now wait until all the kids are well into the land of nod before taking a bath otherwise I get 93258797 interruptions and if you have children, you know exactly what I'm talking about, haha. I usually end up staying in the bath way too long and therefore - refer back to number 2 above.
5. Short stories - I read a fair few shorter stories and books that are easier to read because I know I won't always have time to finish a long novel. But. I feel like I need to be reading something and short stories are perfect for that reason. There's been times where it's taken me a month or longer to read a book because it's 500+ pages long and I just haven't had the time to read any more than 2 or 3 pages at a time. Same goes for shorter books... I don't always have a chance to read. Life is stressful and I get distracted. I often remind myself to make time to read. Even if it's just a few pages at a time.   
6. Appointments. When I have an appointment or the kids have an appointment, I take my book or kindle with me. Not only to read on the bus (see #1) but to read whilst we're the waiting room. I hate waiting but if I've got my book, I don't mind, I'll happily sit there and read. Mind, I don't always get the chance because the kids can be noisy and complain about being bored. My daughter (she's just turned 9 years old) also does the same. She's a little book worm, too! My boys use to take a book with them but now they're older, they prefer fiddle with there phone or listening to music (with earphones! On LOW!) I'd much prefer them to read of course but you know... Teenage boys!! Anyway, waffling now... Moving on... 
7. The park. If I take the kids to the park, quite often I'll pick up my kindle or book while the kids play. There's usually a friend or two the kids know at the park and they're happy to play while I read. Everyone is a winner. 
8. I don't watch much T.V. I do watch Netflix occasionally but to be honest, I'd rather read. I have a whole list of movies and T.V shows I'd like to watch on Netflix but haven't got the time to do that AND read. I prefer reading. Although I do want to start watching 'Once Upon A Time' and I kind of miss Pretty Little Liars. So reading may have to take a back a seat sometimes. I'll add this in here too... If I'm honest, sometimes reading takes over and I don't blog as much. I will schedule a weeks or so worth of posts just so I have more time to read!
9.  I'm a fairly fast paced reader. Therefore I can read a fair bit in a short amount of time. Mind you, it does depend on the book I'm reading. Sometimes I find myself re-reading the same paragraph twice if it's a complicated story. Sometimes my brain just will not absorb it and I find if I'm not really focusing, it's time to put the book down and have a bit of a break from reading. 
10.  LET IT GO - Every day life and obviously I'm a mum of three - I'm always busy, there's always, always something to do, there's always something that needs folding or a dish to wash, a toy to pick up (the list is endless, I know you know what I'm saying. Even if you don't have children, life is busy, right?) but sometimes I just have to let it go and have a little time for myself, even if it's just fifteen minutes, fifteen minutes or even ten minutes to read  here and there soon adds up! And that fifteen minutes truly helps me, I know it sounds daft but after fifteen minutes of reading or -what I call - gathering myself together (lol!) I feel like I can get back to life again, haha. And that dish is still there, that towel that needs folding? It's not going anywhere. It doesn't hurt to take a few minutes out. As long as the kids are happy of course. Yes, I do find it hard to do this one sometimes but when I'm tired or stressed, feeling anxious or just feel like I need a little break, I make myself take that fifteen minutes (Sometimes I don't pick up a book, sometimes I'll just take a few minutes to gather myself and my own thoughts - this is important for everyone. Everyone needs time out. Whether it's reading or not, it truly will help you unwind, I promise! Just take a few minutes out for YOURSELF. Please, just try it)
11. Audio books - I don't know if I should include this one in my 'list' because I haven't tried this one personally but I really like the idea. I've got friends who don't have chance to read much so they listen to the book instead. It's not the same as reading, it still counts though! I am going to give audio books a try when I start working out/jogging again.

So there you have it. Those are the things I do to make time for myself. To read. Like I say it isn't always possible and I do sometimes find myself in a bit of a reading slump or not in the mood to read. I think short stories are really my holy grail this year (any book under 300 pages, I class a short story. Remember, I am a fast reader!).

Do you have any tips to add to this list? What helps you personally relax and unwind? Let me know in the comments, I'm really interested to hear what helps you. 


Sarah xXx

I think everyone that reads my blog knows just how much I love Cathy Glass and her books! So when I was asked if I'd like to review a copy of this book, I of course said that it would be my pleasure. I have read all of Cathy's books (You can check out my reviews here).


For all of you that aren't aware of Cathy Glass, she is a foster carer and has been for over twenty five years. She has fostered over 150 children and some of those stories she shares with us in her books. She also has three children of her own. She is amazing woman and I wish there were more people like her in the world.

'Can I let You Go?' is Cathy glass's new book and has only recently just hit the shops (September 6th 2016). I was ever so excited to read this book!

Genre: Autobiography/Memoir
Pages: 336
The Blurb:

"Faye is 24, pregnant, and has learning difficulties as a result of her mother’s alcoholism. Faye is gentle, childlike and vulnerable, and normally lives with her grandparents, both of whom have mobility problems. Cathy and her children welcome Faye into their home and hearts. The care plan is for Faye to stay with Cathy until after the birth when she will return home and the baby will go for adoption. Given that Faye never goes out alone it is something of a mystery how she ever became pregnant and Faye says it’s a secret.

To begin with Faye won’t acknowledge she is pregnant or talk about the changes in her body as she worries it will upset her grandparents, but after her social worker assures her she can talk to Cathy she opens up. However, this leads to Faye realizing just how much she will lose and she changes her mind and says she wants to keep her baby.

Is it possible Faye could learn enough to parent her child? Cathy believes it is, and Faye’s social worker is obliged to give Faye the chance."

I'll try and write this review without giving too much away. It's always hard to review books without giving away spoilers but especially ones I have thoroughly enjoyed and 'Can I Let You Go?' is no exception!

My thoughts:
'Can I Let You Go?' is a true life fostering memoir, Cathy shares her experience with us.

At the beginning of the book, we learn that Cathy's father has recently passed away, which I found quite sad as he has come into most (if not all!) of Cathy's books. My heart really does go out to Cathy and her family.
Cathy tells us the story of a young adult (Faye) she fostered. Faye is in twenty four years old but has the mind of a much younger person due to 'Foetal Alcohol Syndrome' (FAS) which causes many mental, physical and learning disabilities which are the result of the mother drinking alcohol whilst pregnant. Faye's mother passed away when Faye was just a baby, Faye was brought up and lives with her Grandparents in a block of flats. It isn't easy for her Grandparents to get out as they have health issues themselves and simply can't take her to her appointments whilst she's pregnant as they struggle themselves. Faye has decided to place her baby for adoption as soon as her baby is born as she simply can not care for a baby. She can't care for herself very well and is very dependent on others to help her. Nothing is known about the father of Faye's baby. Cathy takes Faye in whilst she is pregnant. Faye is a very sweet, kind natured young lady and fits into Cathy's home and family perfectly. Cathy's own children (who are young adults themselves) really love Faye and that shines through in this book. Faye doesn't really acknowledge her pregnancy to begin with and seems to ignore the fact she is indeed pregnant. Cathy and Fayes social worker do manage to explain to Faye that she is pregnant . Faye eventually decides that she would like to keep her baby and learn everything she needs to know. It isn't at all easy but with Cathy's and her social workers help, is it possible for Faye to keep her baby? Will she be able to learn everything she needs to know? And WHO exactly is the father of Faye's baby?

If you enjoy Cathy's other books, you'll certainly enjoy this one. I feel it isn't quite as harrowing or sad as some of Cathy's previous experiences that she has shared with us. It's sad in places of course - It's real life after all. It was very easy to connect with Cathy (as always) and I fell in love with Faye. The choices Faye makes are not easy choices for anyone to make! Faye is a very brave, strong young lady. I loved reading the update on Cathy's website. I feel this book has a good ending. I could have quite easily have read this book in one sitting had I had the chance. On and off it took me around 5ish hours in total to read. I found it hard to put down. It's beautifully written and easy to follow and read.
In th back of the book there is a section of suggested topics for a group discussion, I'd quite like to discuss those topics on my blog at some point (watch this space!)
I highly recommend this to anyone who loves memoirs and fostering stories. I think 'Can I Let You Go?' is actually one of my favourite books by Cathy.

I rated this book five out of five stars.

What have you been reading lately?

Sarah xXx





I was sent a copy of 'Can I let you go?@or the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own, honest, personal opinions. I was not paid for this post.

Page: 384 
Genre: Thriller/Psychological Thriller.

"You do the same thing every day.
You know exactly where you're going.
You're not alone.

When Zoe Walker sees her photo in the classifieds section of a London newspaper, she is determined to find out why it's there. There's no explanation: just a website, a grainy image and a phone number. She takes it home to her family, who are convinced it's just someone who looks like Zoe. But the next day the advert shows a photo of a different woman, and another the day after that.

Is it a mistake? A coincidence? Or is someone keeping track of every move they make . . .

I See You is an edge-of-your-seat, page-turning psychological thriller from one of the most exciting and successful British debut talents of 2015."

My thoughts: 

This story follows mainly Zoe. Zoe lives in London with her partner 'Simon' and her two children 'Katie' and 'Justin'. Zoe works in an estate agents. She catches the Tube every day, taking the same route to work every day. One evening on her way home from work, she spots an ad in the local paper. The ad is a photograph of her in which looks like a dating agency website. Zoe shows her family and all of whom say it's a look alike and isn't Zoe at all. She tries brushing it off and putting it the back of her mind. Another ad is in the same paper a few days later - Only Zoe notices a link to a recent crime. She contacts the police...
I can't go any further without spoilers.

- Side note- I've decided to start posting my book reviews here on my main blog rather than my book blog. Keeping up with two blogs is hard work!! 

I read 'I Let You Go' by the same author, earlier on in the year and absolutely loved that book too, which is why I was so eager to read 'I See You' I'm no gonna lie, I don't think I was in the mood to read a thriller when I first started reading this book, despite the anticipated wait. However I quickly got into it and around half way through I found it hard to put down! I actually read most of second half of this book in one sitting.The twists in this book. Oh my goodness! AMAZING! It's actually very realistic and with today's technology something that could so easily happen. It really made me think. Very clever plot, very well thought out and very well written. This book is easy to read, too! If you liked 'I Let You' I think you'll like this book too. It kind of in a way reminded me of Girl On The Train, too! I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery/psychological/thriller.

What have you read lately? Let me know in the comments :)

Sarah xXx

I know that I already have a book blog but I kind of miss posting about what I've been reading on this blog as I know many of you like to hear about what I've been reading and any recommendations I have. I thought I'd do a little round up of the books I've enjoyed lately! I have read many books this year so I'll pick a few of my favourites and share with you.
And if anyone has any recommendations, please feel free to leave a comment and let me know :)

A photo posted by ★ sarah (@the.bookhub) on Jun 28, 2016 at 8:40am PDT

Next up I read 'While My Eyes Were Close' by Linda Green. 
Lisa takes her little girl to the park one afternoon. They play hide and seek and while Lisa's eyes are closed, her daughter goes missing! Where is she? How far could she have gone? Is she just hiding in a really good hiding place? I loved this book and found it hard to put down. I rated this book five stars over on goodreads.

The Girl With No Name by Diney Costeloe was another book I could not wait to read. It's set during world war II about a Jewish girl who has to leave Germany and is evacuated to England. She can speak little English and finds it very different to what she is use to. She's very home sick and misses her family back in Germany, a lot. Will she ever see her family again?  Another really amazing war fiction story that I thoroughly enjoyed.

A photo posted by ★ sarah (@the.bookhub) on Jun 16, 2016 at 3:29am PDT

If I stay by Gayle Foremon is a fairly short story about a family who are involved in a car accident. Seventeen year old Mia is faced with a choice, the biggest choice anyone could ever have! It's really hard to write a review on this book without giving anything away. I'll just say this. You NEED to read it. (The movie is also good but I prefer the book)

One book that has been on my 'To be read' list for a long time is Markus Zusak's 'The Book Thief' Another historical fiction story about a little girl who has to go and live with a childless couple and try to escape the Nazis. The childless couple she goes to live with takes some getting use to. She misses her brother and mother! They take in a Jewish man who ends up hiding out in the cellar! A really good read, beautifully written, a book I really enjoyed! Be warned though, it's 554 pages long. (The film is also good!)

You can read ALL my book reviews over on my book blog.
My book blog is Sarahs Book Hub and my book instagram is The.bookhub please do give me a follow if you like all things bookish! :)    What have you been reading lately or what's your favourite book? 

 

"Sometimes a lie seems kinder than the truth . . . but what happens when that lie destroys everything you love?

When Tess is sent to photograph Greg, a high profile pediatric heart surgeon, she sees something troubled in his face, and feels instantly drawn to him. Their relationship quickly deepens, but then Tess, single mother to nine-year-old Joe, falls pregnant, and Greg is offered the job of a lifetime back in his hometown of Boston. Before she knows it, Tess is married, and relocating to the States. But life in an affluent American suburb proves anything but straightforward.

Unsettling things keep happening in the large rented house, Joe is distressed, the next-door neighbours are in crisis, and Tess is sure that someone is watching her. Greg's work is all-consuming and, as the baby's birth looms, he grows more and more unreachable. Something is very wrong, Tess knows it, and then she makes a jaw-dropping discovery . . ."

I picked this book up in a charity shop along wit ha couple of other books. I love pre-loved books and they're so much cheaper, too. I also love rooting around in the charity shops looking for books! I found a lovely little note card in the book saying 'Enjoy your day' and 'Have fun', which made my day! I sat out in the garden reading my book while the sun was shining! I'm glad I did because it's all done the last two days is rain! Anyway. About the book.

Tess and Greg have to move from U.K to America because of Greg's job. Tess has only been married (and know) Greg a short time but falls pregnant with her second child. She already has a little boy 'Joe' who finds it difficult to settle into the new country and everything that comes with it. Tess struggles too, with having no friends close, no family and Greg is always working. There's something about her next door neighbour 'Helena'... I was gripped right from the beginning and just knew I was going to enjoy this book.
I thought there was probably more to Greg, I was right. I loved Tess's character. I honestly can't fault this book, it was very good indeed. Beautifully written and very easy to follow. I LOVED this book a lot. It was certainly a page turner, the twists are fantastic and I found it truly hard to put down. It's a great Fiction,  Psychological Thriller, I'd quite like to read more by this author.


Now, what do I read next? I'm looking for more psychological thriller books if anyone has any suggestions, please let me know in the comments.
 Or you can tweet me :)
 What are you reading at the moment?

One kiss lasts a moment.
But a thousand kisses can last a lifetime.

One boy.
One girl.
A bond that is forged in an instant and cherished for a decade.
A bond that neither time nor distance can break.
A bond that will last forever.
Or so they believe.
When seventeen-year-old Rune Kristiansen returns from his native Norway to the sleepy town of Blossom Grove, Georgia, where he befriended Poppy Litchfield as a child, he has just one thing on his mind. Why did the girl who was one half of his soul, who promised to wait faithfully for his return, cut him off without a word of explanation?
Rune’s heart was broken two years ago when Poppy fell silent. When he discovers the truth, he finds that the greatest heartache is yet to come.

Standalone Young Adult Tearjerker Romance.
For ages 14 and up
 source


 'A Thousand Boy Kisses' is a really hard book to for me to review. My thoughts are hard to put into words. It is one of the best books I have EVER read. It's beautifully sad and beautifully happy but in a sad way, I can't even explain. I'm sorry if this contians spoilers but it is very hard to describe without giving too much away.  
When Poppy's Mamaw passes away, Poppy is just nine years old. She makes a pact with her nan to fill her jar of paper hearts with a thousand boy kisses. Poppy and her best friend 'Rune' have been friends since the age of 5. They are half of each others soul. Rune has to leave Blossom Grove with his parents back to his native country, Norway. They are both utterly heartbroken. Poppy cuts Rune off with no explanation. No contact. Nothing. But why? When Rune returns to Blossom Grove, two years later, he soon learns why. 
This story is utterly heartbreaking but it truly is a very, very good book. It's beautiful in every single way. 

I really can't go into details on this book because I recommend that everyone should read this book. You will need a box of tissues, it's a tear jerker, that's so sure. A beautiful tear jerker at that. There is so much to this book!
I rate this five stars.. I'd rate this book all the stars in the world if I could. This book will stay with me a long time. And the play list of songs in the back? Whenever I hear any of those songs, it's going to really remind me of this beautiful story. 

Sarah xXx

"Not long after surviving the horrors of D-Day, Corporal James Bowden finds himself as part of a small group of soldiers marching through Nazi-occupied France.

Supplied with orders that are vague and unspecific and surrounded by men he doesn't know, will James survive society’s desire for justice and revenge?" 


Last year the author of 'We Go Again' Aka Michael Cargill asked me if I'd like to review another one of his books. It's taken me quite some time to get around to it. I'll be honest, I moved house, things were stressful, then I lost my kindle and I totally forgot about it! Shocking as that is because let me tell you, I should have read 'We Go Again' a long time ago!
I believe it's based on a true story (EDIT: It is not based on a true story, feel free to read the comment section - note from the author) set during world war II. It's an amazing story that follows James Bowden and his British soldier friends through Nazi occupied France during world war II. It tells the story of not only the British soldiers but also memories from back in England along with French civilians and other people the British soldiers meet along the way. It truly gave an insight to what it was like For the soldiers being in enemy occupied land. The British soldiers manage to shoot down a German plain (bear in mind, they are on foot) which has me sitting on the edge of my seat, waiting to find out what happened next! The story had me gripped all the way through, I found it hard to put down. I read this book in less than a day. It's beautifully written and very descriptive and it's easy to read and not too long (nor too short!). The only thing I regret is not reading this book sooner! I rate this book 4.5 stars. I would recommend everyone reads this book, especially those interested in world war II stories.

This book is available in paper back and ebook format and can be purchased on amazon.

I also reviewed Michael Cargills book "Saying Goodbye To Warsaw" which you can read here.

Sarah xXx

I received "we go again" in ebook format (free) in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, honest, personal opinion.

The Silent Cry by Cathy Glass 

The heartbreaking true story of a young, troubled mother who needed help.
The sixteenth fostering memoir by Cathy Glass.
It’s a big, exciting moment for Laura when she decides to finally take her new baby out to the school playground for the first time ever. What should be a happy, magical moment quickly sours, however, when Laura suddenly feels queasy and runs off back home. None of the other schoolyard mothers seem to notice this troubled, struggling woman – apart from Cathy. But when Cathy tries to help, she finds herself hitting wall after wall. Laura needs medical help but refuses to see a doctor. Her own cold mother refuses to help. It is left to Cathy to try and bring light to this dark and dangerous place.
source. 

I picked this book up in ASDA and it came in a 2 pack with another book by Cathy Glass 'Cut'. A two pack of books for £4? Yes please! Although I think I have already read 'Cut', I'm not quite sure. Firstly, for those of you who don't know. I love Cathy Glass books. She is an amazing woman who fosters children and helps them, she has done this for many, many years and is very experienced. I love the fact she shares her stories with us. 
*MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS* 
This book dates right back to when Cathy's own children were very little. Cathy shares her story about a woman she meets in the playground. She discovers all is not well with this lady -Laura-. It turns out Laura is suffering with PND and needs help. Cathy is a great support and truly does help Laura and her family a lot. Cathy also shares her story and also talks about the children is fostering (on short term) at the time. I cold talk about this book all day but honestly, I don't want to share too much because I know some of my readers have this on there 'To Read' list.
Overall, I really loved this book. There needs to be more people like Cathy in this world. I give this book five stars. It's beautifully written, easy to follow and certainly easy to read. I couldn't put this book down. I read it within a day (on and off of course!)

What have you read lately?

Sarah xXx

Linked up with 
Beck Valley Books. 

"Lou Clark knows lots of things. She knows how many footsteps there are between the bus stop and home. She knows she likes working in The Buttered Bun tea shop and she knows she might not love her boyfriend Patrick.

What Lou doesn't know is she's about to lose her job or that knowing what's coming is what keeps her sane.

Will Traynor knows his motorcycle accident took away his desire to live. He knows everything feels very small and rather joyless now and he knows exactly how he's going to put a stop to that.

What Will doesn't know is that Lou is about to burst into his world in a riot of colour. And neither of them knows they're going to change the other for all time."
Source.

I've had this book on my kindle (I purchased it ages ago) since forever and I wish I had of read it sooner! Ahh, where do I even start with this book? It is SO good. One of the best books I've ever read! It's written beautifully and Jojo Moyes really knows how to pull at heart strings, doesn't she?! I love the story, I loved the characters whom I fell in love with. I wasn't sure about Will at first (a bit like Louisa perhaps?) but half way through the book I decided I really liked him. The whole nature of this book is just... It's so easy to read and had me gripped all the way through. I want to say so much more but I don't want to spoil it for anyone. All I'll say it, have tissues ready... Plenty of them. 
Fantastic book, I couldn't put it down. Five stars from me! I can not wait to finish the second book "After You". Although, I'll be sad when this series is over.... 

What have you read lately? Do you have any "must reads?" you would recommend?

Sarah xXx



 

The Good Girl by Mary Kubica

"I've been following her for the past few days. I know where she buys her groceries, where she works. I don't know the color of her eyes or what they look like when she's scared. But I will." One night, Mia Dennett enters a bar to meet her on-again, off-again boyfriend. But when he doesn't show, she unwisely leaves with an enigmatic stranger. At first Colin Thatcher seems like a safe one-night stand. But following Colin home will turn out to be the worst mistake of Mia's life. When Colin decides to hide Mia in a secluded cabin in rural Minnesota instead of delivering her to his employers, Mia's mother, Eve, and detective Gabe Hoffman will stop at nothing to find them. But no one could have predicted the emotional entanglements that eventually cause this family's world to shatter. An addictively suspenseful and tautly written thriller, The Good Girl is a propulsive debut that reveals how even in the perfect family, nothing is as it seems"

source. 

I won't give any spoilers away. I wasn't really too sure I'd like this book because apparently it is similar to 'Gone Girl' and I couldn't get into that book (I know, I need to give it another try). However, I did enjoy this book, I actualy started reading it around 8pm and stayed up until midnight reading. I had read about half the book within 4 hours, which is quite good going for me! I finished the book the next day. I thought this book was really well written, it was easy to follow, especially as it darts back to 'before' and 'after'. I think I figured out how it would pan out, well mostly anyway, I suspected not everyone was who they seemed. Not quite sure about the "twist" at the end but overall I enjoyed this book, I'd give 4 stars. 

I'm looking forward to reading more by Mary Kubica

 Sarah xXx