My Review for The Case of the Dreaming Dragon: an Elemental Detectives Mystery by Patrice Lawrence

'What if a dragon started the Great Fire of London?'

I regularly return to the books I read as a child—especially when I'm feeling a bit down or stuck in a reading slump. There's nothing quite like rediscovering that first love of losing yourself in a world within a book. So when I was asked if I wanted to read Patrice's new book, I jumped at the chance, knowing I'd love it—I mean, just look at that cover! Sometimes, even as an adult, it’s fun to step back into childhood and just 'be'.

Anyway, back to the book. It was fun, fast-paced, and full of weird and wonderful fantasy creatures—most of them good! (The human-like characters were the villains, of course.) I loved the idea of the elemental spirits who helped Marisee and Robert—our two brave adventurers—and always had their backs. Whether ensuring they landed safely after jumping into a well or sweeping them away with the help of the wind, the spirits were always there.

Patrice’s imagination is astounding. I was completely drawn into her strange and magical version of London; I could picture myself right there with the mudlarks on the banks of the Thames, and with the giants at the bottom of the riverbed.

Although The Case of the Dreaming Dragon is the third book in the series, it reads perfectly well as a standalone. I had no trouble following Marisee and Robert’s latest adventure—though now I definitely want to go back and read the earlier books!

Thank you to Scholastic for the gifted copy of The Case of the Dreaming Dragon by Patrice Lawrence. I’ve already passed it on to my granddaughter, and she’s excited to read it too.

About the Book

Step into a London lit up by the Elemental spirits: the fiery Dragons, the airy Fumis, the watery Chads and the earthbound Magogs. Marisee and Robert - the Elemental Detectives - are back to solve another mystery on the streets of multi-cultural eighteenth century London. A dragon is dreaming of a time when plague blighted the city, when a mysterious cauldron was used for wicked magic and what this would mean if it fell into the wrong hands now...

On a mission from the shores of the Thames, to the ghost-filled gardens of Hyde Park and the forbidding Tower of London, Marisee and Robert must use every ounce of ingenuity they possess to defeat the most villainous foe yet... and find out some secrets about their own families.

About Patrice

Patrice Lawrence was born in Brighton and brought up in an Italian-Trinidadian household in Sussex. Her first novel ORANGEBOY was one of the most talked-about YA books of 2016 and won the Waterstones Children's Book Prize for Older Fiction and the Bookseller YA Book Prize that year. Ever since, her work has consistently featured on prestigious prize lists. NEEDLE has recently been shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal. Patrice has been awarded the MBE for services to literature in the Queen's Birthday Honours list.

Buy on Amazon UK | Buy on Amazon US

Follow Patrice on Bluesky | Follow Patrice on Facebook | Follow Patrice on Instagram

Read More

My Review for Carmilla by J.Sheridan Le Fanu, performed by a BBC Radio Full-Cast

“but curiosity is a restless and scrupulous passion, and no one girl can endure, with patience, that hers should be baffled by another.”

Carmilla was an additional read/listen for October for #classiclitbookclub, and I loved it! Admittedly, the version I listened to was abridged and performed by a BBC Radio cast, but I think the gist of the story came through really well.

Carmilla reminded me of a cross between Dracula (well, it did inspire Bram Stoker) and, for some reason, a mixture of Daphne du Maurier’s novels. I think it was the gothic vibe—the characters wandering through the darkness. I wasn’t sure whether I was going to enjoy it; female vampires just don’t have the same draw as the male ones 😂. But actually, I liked Laura and her dad, even if I really didn’t like Carmilla—she was the essence of evil and manipulation: narcissistic and just plain creepy!

I’ll read the full version at some point, but I’m really glad it’s now on my radar.

About the Book

In an isolated castle deep in the Austrian forest, Laura leads a solitary life with only her ailing father for company. Until one moonlit night, a horse-drawn carriage crashes into view, carrying an unexpected guest – the beautiful Carmilla. So begins a feverish friendship between Laura and her mysterious, entrancing companion. 

But as Carmilla becomes increasingly strange and volatile, prone to eerie nocturnal wanderings, Laura finds herself tormented by nightmares and growing weaker by the day… Pre-dating Dracula by twenty-six years, Carmilla is the original vampire story, steeped in sexual tension and gothic romance.

About J. Sheridan Le Fanu

Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu was an Irish writer of Gothic tales and mystery novels. He was the leading ghost-story writer of the nineteenth century and was central to the development of the genre in the Victorian era. M.R. James described Le Fanu as "absolutely in the first rank as a writer of ghost stories".

Buy on Amazon UK | Buy on Amazon US

Read More

My Review for Dying to be Here by T.J. Emerson, read by Claire Storey and Karen Cass

'You’d die for a stay here. But would you kill for it'?

I joined a listen-along for this book back in July 2024 (it was called The Last Resort then), and apologies for the delay in posting my review!

I wasn’t sure what to expect—maybe a Death in Paradise style mystery—but what I got was a story full of dark secrets, a slow-burn mystery, and some truly sinister goings-on. I enjoyed learning about the history behind the retreat and the events of the past, though I could have done with less of the spiritual wellbeing stuff—that just isn’t my cup of tea.

The characters were fascinating, annoying, and downright awful in equal measures. Not awful in a bad way, but I definitely wanted to shake a few of them! Reviews for this book are mixed; it seems people either love it or hate it. It’s a slow-paced story with deep dives into each character, so give it a try if you enjoy character-driven mysteries—you might just love it.

Thank you to Boldwood for the opportunity to listen to and review Dying to be Here (The Last Resort) by T.J. Emerson. 

About the Book

As soon as you first see the House in the Hills, an old hotel in a picturesque enclave of the Cypriot hills, you know it's the perfect home for you – with breath-taking views, a refreshing pool, and peace and quiet, away the rest of the world. A place to recover and grow.

But paradise isn’t cheap, and as the debts mount, you could lose everything you've worked so hard for.

Until someone makes you an offer: to keep your home, you have to take a life.

But you could never do that… could you?

You’d die for a stay here. But would you kill for it?

About T.J. Emerson

As the daughter of a soldier, Tracey Emerson spent her childhood and most of her teenage years moving between army camps in the UK, Germany, the Middle East and the Far East. After a short stint in boarding school, she did a degree in Dramatic Arts at Bretton Hall College, University of Leeds. Not long after graduating, she moved to Edinburgh on a whim, intending to stay for six months. She has lived in Scotland ever since.

Before writing fiction, Tracey worked in theatre and community arts. As well as acting, she ran drama workshops in hospitals, focusing on adults with learning difficulties and mental health issues. After a period of poor health, she began writing as a way of reconnecting with her creativity. She started attending creative writing classes at the University of Edinburgh’s Lifelong Learning Centre and was lucky enough to meet the author Helen Lamb, who encouraged her to send in one of her first short stories to The Scotland and Orange Short Story prize. The story, ‘Our Big Day Out’, was a runner up in the competition, and this early success gave Tracey the confidence to keep writing. Other story publications in anthologies and literary magazines followed, and Tracey went on to study for an MSc in Creative writing at the University of Edinburgh. After completing this course, she received a scholarship to do her PhD in Creative Writing at the university, working on the novel that would eventually become her debut thriller, Mother’s Day.

Since then, she has continued to publish short stories and her feature writing has appeared in Stella magazine, Woman’s Own and The Sydney Morning Herald. In June 2021, she signed with Boldwood Books to publish her second thriller, The Perfect Holiday, under the name TJ Emerson.

As well as writing her own fiction, Tracey works as a literary consultant and writing tutor and is also the Creative Director of The Bridge Awards, a philanthropic organisation that provides micro-funding for the arts.

When not travelling, Tracey lives in the hills of Perthshire. She can often be found tramping around the countryside and, occasionally, braving a dip in the chilly rivers and lochs.

Buy on Amazon UK | Buy on Amazon US

Follow Tracey on Facebook | Follow Tracey on Instagram

Tracey's Website

Read More

My Review for Falling for You by Emily Maple, Read by Celeste Dring and Davis Brooks

“Go and live out your best Hugh Grant fantasy.”

Ohhhhh — Annie and Nate, I loved them so much! Although, Annie is a bit needy, right? It wasn’t just me who thought that? Come on, girl — it’s time to get out and explore a bit more; you can’t stay cooped up in a house with your besties forever! 😂

Falling for You is a cute, fast read (or listen!) that gave me all the autumnal, cozy vibes as I popped in my earbuds and strolled along the country lanes of Norfolk — chatting with the piggies and immersing myself in Annie’s hunt for Prince Charming after he disappears into the night without a backward glance.

If you’re a fan of autumn, The Holiday, or anything starring Hugh Grant, grab yourself a copy of this one. You won’t be disappointed.

Thank you to Libro.fm and Penguin Randomhouse Audio for the opportunity to listen to and review Falling for You by Emily Maple.

About the Book

I LOVE autumn. It’s my favourite season – the crisp October air, the smell of pumpkin-spiced lattes, wearing my bright red hand-knitted scarf and beanie. But most of all, I love the costume I made for tonight’s Halloween party. I’m going as a bat, with huge, pop-out wings.

I didn’t expect to impale someone with them though… Or to become so entangled I rip the shirt of the most gorgeously warm-eyed man I’ve ever seen. Or, in fact, to spend all night talking to him before he gets an emergency phone call and dashes off without swapping numbers.

I’ve fallen for a mystery man. Now I just have to find him again…

About Emily

Emily is a writer living in Berkshire with her partner and their occasional dog, Archie the boxer! Emily has worked in casting, marketing and education, but everything always ends up boiling down to her true love... writing! 

Emily is the international bestselling author of four novels under the name Olivia Beirne.

Buy on Amazon UK

Follow Emily on Facebook | Follow Emily on Instagram

Read More

My Review for Britannia Strikes by Russell Dumper

“If you don't trust us, why tell us?”

And so Leo’s ominous plans for expanding the British Empire continue, while the Resistance fights back, in the second instalment of Russell Dumper’s Britannia series.

Having got my head around the world-building in the first book, I settled into Britannia Strikes very quickly this time, now that I know who everyone is and what their roles are. I still can’t help picturing our current Royal Family as this fictitious one though 🙈 — it’s been very cleverly imagined by the author.

I’m not usually a fan of political stories, but this series has really grabbed my attention. The level of research that must have gone into it is phenomenal, and I’m full of admiration for Russell’s dedication to a world he’s been developing since his teenage years.

This is a dystopian novel full of intrigue and mystery — and it’s quite frankly unsettling at times, as you realise how easily its events could mirror the real world, with all its relentless and often controversial decisions.

If you’re a fan of dystopian fiction, sci-fi, politics, or spy thrillers, this book has it all. I’m already eager to see what happens next.

Thank you to Russell Dumper for the gifted copy of Britannia Strikes.

About the Book

With King Alfred concentrating on Outpost, the British Empire is following a new, more sinister path. King Regent Leopold is pushing through his dream of expansion as he seeks to crush the rebellions rising in opposition. His plans, formed in the shadows, will have a devastating effect on his enemies and confirm The Empire as the only, true world superpower.

The Dayak are enjoying support and growth, following their victory in the Battle of Serpent Valley. With Nepal on the cusp of independence from the iron grip of The Empire, they must consolidate their position. But the British never give up so easily and the East India Company should never be underestimated. Letitia Pearl, Bob Royce, and the monks, must all spot the dangers lurking just across the border. And maybe closer to home, too...

Jamie Bayston is recovering from the loss of his family the only way he can - by throwing himself into his work. As Ed MacLoughlin and Trevor Layttle train him, and try to find answers, it looks increasingly likely that they will need to head back into the jaws of the lion to find them. 

About Russell (taken from The Spalding & South Holland Voice)

Russell Dumper has followed his childhood dream of becoming an author. “I’ve always loved writing and it has brought be so much joy since I was a small boy. It’s a fire that burns inside of me, a passion that I’ve always had. I have so many more books to write, and I can’t wait to write them,” he said.

His book, Britannia Rises, is set in an alternate near future ruled by the British Empire.

“There are all kinds of characters, twists, links into modern events, action, suspense and surprises galore. “When asked, I describe it as a kind of modern Game of Thrones meeting a James Bond origin story. There are many plots overlapping each other and the main characters are deep and complex,” he added.

The father of two small children, who lives in Spalding, said he had the idea for the story aged 14 or 15.

“It’s developed a lot over the years, as you can imagine, with several rewrites to get to where it is now. It will appeal to anyone who loves thrillers and suspense books, from young adults upwards.

“It’s a story that will make you love and hate the same character. I suspect the full series will be seven or eight books,” said Russell.

Buy on Amazon UK | Buy on Amazon US

Follow Russell on Facebook | Follow Russell on Instagram

Read More

My Review for Britannia Rises by Russell Dumper

'The illusion of some level of democracy over there keeps the people satisfied.'

I have had this book on my shelf for a couple of years (sorry Russell), 🙈 but as the second book in the series is out next week, I decided I would read them back to back. Of course I hadn't looked at the synopsis for ages and so I had no idea what I was getting into, and admittedly it did take me a while to get to grips with the characters, the story and the slight weirdness of it all. However, once I'd got all that sorted in my head, I flew through it. 

Britannia Rises starts off a bit slow, but once it gets going the pace really picks up. Before I knew it, I was racing through the pages trying to keep up with the action.. The book is a dystopian take on an alternative view on the monarchy and Britain as we know it. Gone are the days of our adorable Queen, and in steps her son, and more importantly, her grandson who is set to change our country as we know it. All this is in the book, don't worry, I don't think our Royal Family is set to turn rogue just yet!

Full of assassins, spies, terrorists and many dubious characters, this dystopian, sci fi novel will have you wondering whether actually, do we really know what's going on outside of our doors. 

Thank you to Russell Dumper and The Conrad Press for the gifted copy of Britannia Rises.

About the Book

‘Britannia Rises’ tells the story of how, in the near future, the British Empire faces a pivotal crossroads. When the queen dies, her peaceful, prosperous reign comes to an end after more than seven decades. The new monarch must tackle challenges from within his own family and decide how to keep The Empire competitive with their most powerful rivals. The other world powers are looking for any weakness they can find to subjugate Britain and take their place as the most powerful nation on Earth. At the same time, King Alfred must preserve the peace and focus on Outpost, the cooperative programme that will ensure the survival of the human species. Jamie Bayston is a young teacher, embarking on a wonderful life, who has the misfortune to witness a murder that will plunge him into the dark world that exists between The Empire and its struggle to maintain order. He must run and fight to keep himself and his family safe while facing up to the truth that the world he knows is just a small part of what’s really out there.

About Russell (taken from The Spalding & South Holland Voice)

Russell Dumper has followed his childhood dream of becoming an author. “I’ve always loved writing and it has brought be so much joy since I was a small boy. It’s a fire that burns inside of me, a passion that I’ve always had. I have so many more books to write, and I can’t wait to write them,” he said.

His book, Britannia Rises, is set in an alternate near future ruled by the British Empire.

“There are all kinds of characters, twists, links into modern events, action, suspense and surprises galore. “When asked, I describe it as a kind of modern Game of Thrones meeting a James Bond origin story. There are many plots overlapping each other and the main characters are deep and complex,” he added.

The father of two small children, who lives in Spalding, said he had the idea for the story aged 14 or 15.

“It’s developed a lot over the years, as you can imagine, with several rewrites to get to where it is now. It will appeal to anyone who loves thrillers and suspense books, from young adults upwards.

“It’s a story that will make you love and hate the same character. I suspect the full series will be seven or eight books,” said Russell.

Buy on Amazon UK | Buy on Amazon US

Follow Russell on Facebook | Follow Russell on Instagram

Read More

My Review for Dark Horse by Felix Francis

"'You have no idea how much we've saved,' Marina said. I was more worried about how much they'd spent."

Quick off the start and a fast pace all the way to the finish line! Dark Horse is another surefire winner from Felix Francis. I devoured Dick Francis books as a teenager, and Felix has expertly picked up the reins to continue his father’s legacy. Sorry — was that a bit corny?! 😂

Imogen is our protagonist, and although she can come across as a bit over-dramatic, she does have good reason. She ditches her controlling and abusive boyfriend and moves to another country for a fresh start. From there, with the occasional high point, it’s pretty much a downhill ride — and not in a good way!

There are also little touches of humour scattered throughout — the quote I used at the beginning  made me laugh, and there are lots of little snippets like this throughout. 

Dark Horse is a quick read, with lots going on and an ending I definitely didn’t see coming. If you’re not familiar with racing lingo, don’t worry — Felix weaves everything you need to know neatly into the story so you won’t get lost.

Thank you to Zaffre Books for the gifted copy of Dark Horse, for letting me read and review it, and for including me on the blog tour.

About the Book

Imogen Duffy is a young Irish jockey, whose fledgling career is given a huge boost when she wins a prestigious horse race at the Cheltenham Steeplechasing Festival. But all is not well in her life. She has a violent and controlling boyfriend, also a jockey, and he becomes increasingly jealous of her success. As a result, she tries to break off their relationship, but he won't take 'no' for an answer. He attacks her, and claims that he'd rather kill her than allow her to leave him.

Imogen flees her home in Ireland, coming to England to get away from him, and to continue her riding career at a racing stable in Lambourn, where she finds increasing success. But the abusive boyfriend follows her across the Irish Sea, stalks her, steals from her, attacks her again, and then tries to ruin both her career and her reputation.

About Felix

Felix Francis is Dick Francis’s younger son. Born in 1953, Felix studied Physics and Electronics at London University and then embarked upon a 17-year career teaching Advanced Level physics at three schools, the last seven as head of the science department at Bloxham School in Oxfordshire. After leaving teaching, Felix then became a businessman, spending 13 years as deputy chairman of World Challenge Expeditions Ltd, before starting his third career as an author.

As a child, Felix remembers that conversations around the Francis breakfast table were somewhat unconventional. “The production of a Dick Francis novel has always been a mixture of inspiration, perspiration and teamwork. The first one was published when I was nine, and I grew up in a house where talk would be about the damage a bullet might do to a man’s guts rather than the more mundane topics of everyday life”.

Over the next 40 years, Felix assisted Dick with both the research and the writing of many of his novels. They shared a love of racing and often worked together on plot and character details at Dick’s home in the Cayman Islands. This partnership allowed Dick to draw upon Felix’s knowledge and experience as a physics teacher and marksman in Twice Shy, and as an outdoorsman in Longshot.

With the publication of Under Orders in 2006, Felix took over the writing of the ‘Dick Francis’ novels from his father. This was followed by Dead Heat in 2007, Silks in 2008, and Even Money in 2009. Crossfire was the book Felix was working on when Dick died in February 2010, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another in the Dick Francis brand. 

Buy on Amazon UK | Buy on Amazon US

Follow Felix on Facebook

Felix's Website

Read More