Stunning. Writing that reminded me of Haper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’, the story pulled you in and painted beautiful pictures of the North Carolina Swamp that was home for Kya. Kya’s character instantly drew you in. Strong minded, determined and hopefully even in the face of all the adversity she faced. Absolutely loved this book ❤️

This is the first book I have read by Gemma Liviero and it was fantastic. Historical fiction crossed with psychological thriller, this book kept me guessing until the end. I really enjoyed Stefano’s POV, an Italian perspective on WWII was new for me, and I hadn’t realised how divided Italy had been during the war. All the characters created strong emotional responses for me. A great read!

Eye opening and heart wrenching in places, I really enjoyed this book. It highlighted real issues that many people in the UK suffer with, and how quickly anyone’s situation can turn from stable to desperate. I found the ending a little trite if I’m honest, but other than that a good read.

My son loved reading this book. His favourite part was at the end when all the dogs became themselves. Another great Rob Biddulph book

A warm fuzzy romcom. Does what it says on the tin.

I enjoyed multiple aspects of this book. As a big fan of historical fiction I loved that it featured an era that I haven’t read about before (most of my books to date being set very much AD). I also found the POV really interesting. The idea that Jesus may have had a wife, and what she would have experienced was a truly enthralling concept. Beatifically written.

At the ripe old age of 32 I was clearly too old for this book. Perhaps I would have enjoyed it when I was younger, but it was just too full of teenage angst for me. I also found the characters and story line pretty flat. Hey ho, you love and learn. YA is not for me.

After reading mixed reviews and not being overly excited by the blurb I wasn’t sure I would like this book. I was very very wrong. The depth of the characters was phenomenal. The story lines were raw and real. It covered so many issues from adoption to sibling relationships and so much more. I loved the ending, leaving so much to imagination. In many books that could be perceived as a cop out, but in this I felt it was perfect. Allowing the reader to imagine the countless possibilities awaiting each character, and how the events over the course of this book may have changed their trajectories in life. Awesome!!

I don’t usually read non-fiction, but this book has made me think that perhaps I should. Tara’s story was extraordinary. Her strength throughout shone through. How every small defiance lead her to become the woman she is now was incredible. Well written and completely enthralling. A phenomenal memoir.