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Write It All Down By Cathy Rentzenbrink
Before I start this reflection on Write It All Down by Cathy Rentzenbrink, I should make a full disclosure. I am a huge fan of Cathy’s work and as such I found myself impatiently waiting for the release of this book. In a bold move (very unlike me), I approached the publishers – Bluebird Books For Life – and asked them if I could get my greedy little mitts on a proof copy of Write It All Down. Luckily for me they kindly agreed.
The Island Home By Libby Page
I was really looking forward to reading The Island Home by Libby Page, as I had loved one of her previous novels, The Lido. Libby Page is a Sunday Times bestselling author and judging from these two novels, she’s very good at writing uplifting and comforting stories.
Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano
It seems that this week’s break from chemo is doing me the world of good. My concentration span is now a tiny bit longer than a gnat’s and it’s meant I’ve been able to throw myself into my reading. I practically inhaled Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano, finishing this novel in two days.
Dear Reader: The Comfort and Joy of Books by Cathy Rentzenbrink
I have to confess that I am a massive fan of Cathy Rentzenbrink and, therefore, you could say that this review is a little biased. However, I’m a fan for a good reason – her writing is just wonderful!
Dealing With A Cancer Recurrence
I wasn’t going to write about this. I didn’t want this latest development to define me. I didn’t want this blog, my sanctuary, to be all things cancer again. I was also worried about boring all of you. Saying all of this, I’ve received a flurry of messages from people and that has changed my mind. Plus, I have to admit that as little as I may want this cancer to be part of my life, it is.
Lucky
What should be a simple 7 minute journey in the car is much longer today. Thick fog has rolled in covering the island in a heavy blanket that obliterates my view. I drive to school slowly, hunched over my steering wheel as drizzle splatters the windscreen. Every turning or junction filling me with trepidation as I half expect to see a juggernaut suddenly looming out of the fog. As I drive back (Youngest safely deposited at school), the silence sits with me, swaddling my chest tightly.
Blood Orange by Harriet Tyce
Blood Orange by Harriet Tyce is a gripping thriller with twists and turns galore. Straightaway we are plunged into a murky and somewhat questionable world
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro
Wow. I’m not really sure where to start when it comes to Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro. It’s a complex novel that my poor choice of words won’t be able to do justice.
The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley
The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley is a novel that is a gloriously easy read. It’s a unique story and one that I feel like I’ve never read before, and I’ve devoured more than my fair share of novels. It’s also a novel that feels very pertinent for now.
Because of You by Dawn French
Because of You by Dawn French isn’t her first novel, however, it is the first one of Dawn’s that I’ve read. What a glorious introduction it was. I loved it.
Sorry
I’m sorry for being absent and being such a tardy blogger. Life’s strange. We are still in a pandemic and I find myself unwilling to add to the conversation. What can I possibly say that is meaningful or insightful or even vaguely reassuring?
Walking Away From It All
I carefully place one foot in front of the other, my eyes not leaving the narrow path. Far beneath me I can hear the waves crashing against the cliff face. I daren’t look though. The drop to the swirling sea below is sheer and looking over the edge will just make my head feel dizzy and my stomach swim. Instead, I continue to focus on just moving slowly along the path.
A Summer Well Spent
Firstly, before I delve into my usual rambles I must offer you a heartfelt apology. I am so sorry that I have been absent from this little space.
Life in Lockdown
This must have been the longest I have gone without writing a blog. These are unusual times.
Am I Standing Still?
I find myself at a bit of a crossroads. Every direction I look there is an unknown road spiralling away from me. It doesn’t scare me but I do feel overwhelmed. I’m feeling the pressure to make this year count. But how? What should I do?
How are you?
“How are you?” The question came from a friend and for one breathless gulp I was tempted to let the mask slip. I thought about telling her how I really was, but I looked and saw that the “how are you?” didn’t require an honest answer.
ArtHouse Jersey Needs You….and your Face!
Recovery From Cancer Isn’t A Linear Process
A New Decade, A New Me?
