“There are two motives for reading a book: one, that you enjoy it; the other, that you can boast about it.”

Remember, I Love You - Claudia Carroll

Claudia Carroll’s Remember, I Love You is a poignant yet uplifting exploration of grief, connection, and the enduring power of love. Set in Dublin, the novel weaves together the lives of several individuals who have experienced profound loss, drawing them into a supportive community at the Leesom Street Café. Through their shared stories and budding friendships, what evolves is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming, reminding us that even in the darkest times, hope and healing are possible.

The story centers on Luke, a recently widowed father, who, alongside his young daughter Amy, is struggling to navigate life without his wife, Helen. Connie, mourning the loss of her mother, finds solace in the café, while teenage twins Alex and Lucy grapple with the absence of their father. Their paths converge when Lucasta Liversidge, a renowned and somewhat bonkers author with the ability to communicate with the departed, enters their lives, offering a glimmer of possibility that their loved ones might still be near. As they come together, the characters delve into the complexities of grief and the human desire for connection, while trying to support each other recoup their strength and resilience.

Dorothy Herson - The Ragdoll Contract

The Rag Doll Contract by Dorothy Herson is a compelling exploration of ambition, identity, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of success. The novel follows Olivia, a driven protagonist who escapes the monotony of her hometown to conquer Oxford, law school, and eventually the elite corporate world known as the "Only Circle." Herson paints a vivid picture of the relentless pressure and toxic culture within this high-powered environment, where employees are pushed to their limits, both mentally and physically.

The narrative delves into the psychological toll of striving for perfection, highlighting themes of addiction—not to substances, but to achievement and validation. Olivia's journey is both inspiring and cautionary, as she grapples with the cost of her choices and the hollow rewards of her relentless ambition.

Herson's writing is sharp and evocative, immersing readers in the cutthroat world of corporate law while offering a poignant critique of its impact on mental health and personal identity. The book is a thought-provoking read that resonates with anyone who has ever questioned the true meaning of success.

 

 

They Had It Coming - Nikki Smith

They Had It Coming by Nikki Smith is a gripping thriller that transports readers to the sun-soaked and increasingly remote working expat occupied beaches of Bali, where secrets and lies unravel among two couples. Nate and Layla, Jude and Sophie have shared a close-knit bond for years, but when Nate and Layla suddenly relocate to Bali, cracks begin to show as the couples reunite. Showing that, shock horror, the Instagram #Blessed #LivingMyBestLife visuals are far from indicative of reality. The story explores betrayal, revenge, and the complexities of relationships, keeping readers on edge with its twists and turns.

Nikki’s writing is evocative, capturing the glamorous yet tense atmosphere of Bali while delving into the darker sides of human nature. The narrative is told from multiple perspectives, adding depth and intrigue as readers navigate the tangled web of deceit.

 

 

The Wrong Sister - Dandy Smith

 The Wrong Daughter is a psychological thriller that delves into themes of identity, trauma, and the complexities of familial bonds. The story is told via Caitlin, who was just 10 years old when her sister Olivia was abducted, and Elinor, a neighboring sibling with her own dark past. Sixteen years later, Olivia mysteriously returns, but Caitlin harbors doubts about the woman's true identity. As the story progresses, secrets unravel, and the lines between truth and deception blur, leading to a series of unexpected twists that kept me hooked, reading anywhere and everywhere!

 

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