Book Review: Where the Light Goes by Sara Barnard

AD* | A heart-wrenching exploration of grief, set in a landscape corrupted by fame and the scrutiny that comes from living in the shadow of a star.

"Lizzie Beck" is one-quarter of British pop sensation The Jinks, who launched their career via a reality TV talent show and rose straight to fame – and in Lizzie’s case, infamy, for her tumultuous relationship with her boyfriend, stints in rehab and candid confessions about her mental health on Instagram.

To Emmy, though, she will always be her older sister, Beth, the person whose footsteps she intends to follow. Except now she can’t. Because Beth, Emmy's beloved sister, has died by suicide.

Forced to face a world without the guiding light of her bright, brilliant big sister, Emmy must wrestle with the impact of private grief, public scrutiny and discover who she once was and who she will become, now that Beth is gone.

Reading Round-Up: March/April 2023

Welcome to my latest reading round-up blog post, where I'll be taking a closer look at all the books I've been reading over the past two months. From the latest bestsellers to hidden gems, I've been immersing myself in a wide range of genres and styles.

So, grab a cup of tea and settle in as we take a deep dive into the world of books and all the exciting reads I've discovered over the past two months.

Reading Round-Up: January/February 2023

Welcome to my first reading round-up post of the year! We're now two months into 2023 - how time flies! - and with a new year comes a brand new batch of books to enjoy.

I found myself in a bit of a reading slump at the tail-end of last year. Fortunately, the start of the new year seems to have been just the boost I needed to get back on track again. I've kicked off 2023 well and have found several incredible new (to me) books, which I can't wait to share with you!

Book Review: In the Dark by Claire Allan

AD* | My name is Nora Logue. You’ve probably heard of me – most people have.

I am the mother of Daisy Logue. Seven years ago, I took her for a walk in the woods. Only I came out.

I have no memory of what happened that day.

I have tried to rebuild my life. Met a man, had another child – Luca. But I can’t let go of Daisy, or give up hope of seeing her again.

And now, I have the chance to find out what happened to her.

But what if pursuing the truth about my daughter risks my son’s life?

Book Review: The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley

AD* | Jess needs a fresh start. She’s broke and alone, and she’s just left her job under less-than-ideal circumstances. Her half-brother Ben didn’t sound thrilled when she asked if she could crash with him for a bit, but he didn’t say no, and surely everything will look better from Paris. Only when she shows up – to find a very nice apartment, could Ben really have afforded this? – he’s not there.

The longer Ben stays missing, the more Jess starts to dig into her brother’s situation, and the more questions she has. Ben’s neighbours are an eclectic bunch, and not particularly friendly. Jess may have come to Paris to escape her past, but it’s starting to look like it’s Ben’s future that’s in question.

The socialite – The nice guy – The alcoholic – The girl on the verge – The concierge

Everyone’s a neighbour. Everyone’s a suspect. And everyone knows something they’re not telling.