Books I've Read & Loved
A Good Story - Fiction
I have always believed that books are one of life's simplest pleasures.
They ask nothing of us except a little time and curiosity, yet they can take us to another place entirely.
Perhaps some of these will find a place on your bedside table, accompany you on a weekend away, or become the perfect excuse to curl up with a warm drink and a softly scented candle.
Look out each month for new additions to my bookshelf.
Where the Crawdads Sing
Delia Owens
This story follows the life of Kya, isolated from her community at a young age, growing up alone in the marshes of North Carolina. It is a beautifully written tale of resilience, loneliness, love and the connection between people and the natural world.
A mystery and a coming of age novel that gently encourages the reader to wonder what it means to belong. Now made into a movie - it is worth adding to both your reading and watch list.
Olive Kitteridge
Elizabeth Strout
Olive is a retired school teacher whose sharp exterior hides a compassionate and deeply observant heart. Set in a small coastal town in Maine, this book thoughtfully explores the complexities of everyday life. Through interconnected stories, we come to know Olive through the relationships of those she comes into contact with.
With warmth, humour and honesty, Elizabeth Strout captures beauty found in ordinary moments, relationships and the lives we often take for granted.
It's a gentle, reflective read that lingers long after the final page and reminds us that every person has a story worth knowing.
Readers who enjoy character-driven novels and quietly beautiful storytelling will enjoy this and the follow up 'Olive Again'.
The Snow Child
Eowyn Ivy
Set in the 1920's, a young girl emerges from the woods and forever changes the lives of Jack & Mabel, a childless older couple surviving the Alaskan wilderness after moving from Pennsylvania. Derived from a Russian folk tale, it is a mysterious and captivating story that stays with you long after the final page.
I read this book in 2 days, it is an all time favourite.
The Vintners Luck
Elizabeth Knox
I loved this book. Loved. It. It's an unusual tale, beautifully written and subtly draws you in.
The chapters mark years in the Vintners life. Set in 19th century France, it follows the life of a peasant wine-maker, his life long relationship with an Angel and his friendship with Baroness Aurora de Valday which makes for an unorthodox love triangle.
If you are looking for a fascinating read this is the one. Also now a movie, which I have not seen but it's on my list.