After the previous computer problems, my monthly reading list has needed to be combined so you and I can catch up.
Charms & Cupcake by Baily Cates
Three and a half stars from me. Again, a likeable and engaging story. Unfortunately, I somehow missed book two, so I was not reading in sequence. However, it was easy to catch up. What I like best about this series is how Katie is learning more about her magical abilities and also the ramifications of using magic. Again, an ample supply of suspects, red herrings and a neat solution.
The Witches’ Tree by M.C Beaton
I have long been a fan of Agatha Raisin since she burst on the scene in Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death. This book does not have the same light tone as the earlier books, it made me wonder if the author had grown tired of the series. It was more satirical about the joys of living in the Cotswolds. Not quite as much fun as I was expecting. Plenty of red herrings and an alarming list of suspects again put Agatha in danger.
Bring Your Fiction to Life by Karen S Wiener
Helpful and informative with a wealth of advice from a hugely prolific author who knows what she is talking about. I think all writers would find something of interest in this book. Useful appendices too
The Bookshop On The Shore by Jenny Colgan
A bit more serious than the light-hearted cover design might suggest. Heartfelt and beautifully told – it certainly did not gloss over some hard situations- self-harm, single parenthood, neglected children etc. But with a hopeful and inspiring message too.
L’Amour Actually by Melanie Jones
Not quite the romantic idyll that city girl Mel was expecting. For me, it was laughing out loud funny and describes rural life a long way from Paris and Parisienne chic. A cottage which although charming has ‘challenging’ plumbing-plus the rural suspicion of foreigners- including those from Paris. Add a debonair and charming French man-of course! Lovely to read far less pleasant to live I would imagine. Told with good humour.
The Loveliest Chocolate Shop in Paris by Jenny Colgan.
A book that celebrates both Paris and chocolate. It also highlights cultural differences, identity, coming of age, love and all things chocolate. I was delighted to read about Claire managing to escape her dominating father for one magical summer in Paris. Later on, she sends Anna to Paris to recuperate from an accident and once more Paris works its transformational magic. Additionally, the back pages have many tempting and delicious-sounding chocolate recipes.
And as I am preparing to give an author talk, I did some research
Your Perfect Presentation by Bill Hoogterp.
Takes you through the steps needed to build an interesting and informative presentation. A useful book.
TED talks Chris Anderton 
What could I learn from reading about Ted talks? Quite a lot and all relayed in an easy to read and informative style.
With both of these books, I took plenty of notes.
Sonia Bellhouse- Author. 