Thursday, 17 July 2025
Kindle Audiobook: The Forgetting, Hannah Beckerman
Wednesday, 16 July 2025
Libby Audiobook: Alas of the Heart, Brené Brown
Belonging and fitting in: Fitting in is about assessing a situation and becoming who you need to be in order to be accepted. Belonging, on the other hand, doesn't require us to change who we are; it requires us to be who we are.
Brené Brown
4/5
Sunday, 13 July 2025
Libby Audiobook: The Vacancy in Room 10 by Seraphina Nova Glass
Urgh. Eyeroll.
The Vacancy in Room 10 is told from the viewpoints of two very different women. Both ended up at The Sycamore apartment complex, the dead-end, run-down motel-turned-apartment complex on the outskirts of Santa Fe, New Mexico, because of tragic events in their life which they had no control.
2/5
Friday, 11 July 2025
Kindle Audiobook:The Sideways Life of Denny Voss By Holly Kennedy
Rating: 4/5
So sweet and tenderly told. At first, I thought it might echo The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time or The Rosie Project; however, this story quickly found its own charming voice.
We meet Denny, a young man with cognitive challenges due to complications at birth. Raised with love and fierce loyalty by his Nanna Jo, Denny navigates the world with innocence, honesty, and a gentle humour that stays with you.
He gets arrested for murder. What stands out most is the purity of Denny’s perspective. It is a quiet, moving read about love, and resilience.
Sunday, 6 July 2025
Libby Audiobook:Another Life by Kristin Hannah
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.8/5)
This was my first Hannah read, and I can see why she is so widely loved. Another Life offers a quietly powerful story about second chances, grief, and finding purpose when life takes an unexpected turn.
I had always thought Kristin Hannah only wrote historical fiction, so the contemporary setting was a surprise. It was not what I expected, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are rich, relatable, and written with care. You feel drawn into their world and invested in their healing.
A gentle, character-driven story that lingers quietly in your thoughts.
Synopsis:
Angie and her husband long to become parents, but after years of heartbreak and disappointment, their marriage begins to unravel. Following their divorce, Angie returns to her large, boisterous Italian family and helps out at the family restaurant while grappling with the grief of losing her father. At the same time, Lauren, a bright and ambitious teenager raised by an indifferent mother, is preparing for college and dreaming of a future with her boyfriend, David. When their lives intersect, a new kind of hope begins to emerge for both women.
Saturday, 5 July 2025
Kindle: Child Missing, Lynn Miclea
I wanted to enjoy this, but unfortunately, Child Missing fell quite flat for me. The writing felt dry and bland. I’ve been spoiled with richly written mysteries full of twists and layered characters, this simply did not compare. The narrative was repetitive.
On the plus side, it was a quick read, so I do not feel I wasted too much time. I kept reading in the hope for a big twsist. Spoiler alert, the detectives suspected the teacher, and it was him.
Summary:
Detective Matt Holden investigates the mysterious disappearance of a young boy from a park. As the search intensifies, the case uncovers potential suspects and hidden secrets in the community. The story follows the detective’s step-by-step investigation, aiming to find the child before it is too late.
Tuesday, 1 July 2025
Libby Audiobook: Edda Mussolini, Caroline Moorehead
Despite the title, this book is far more about Benito Mussolini than his daughter Edda. I was hoping for an in-depth look into Edda. Instead, what I got was a long, often dry political biography of Mussolini himself.
At the halfway mark, I was still waiting for Edda’s voice to come through. By 90%, I thought we might finally focus on her... but no. The narrative continued to orbit around Mussolini’s regime, with Edda remaining more of a shadowy side figure than the main subject.
I found the book long, labour-intensive, and misleadingly titled. If you are interested in Edda as a standalone historical figure, this one will disappoint.
2/5
Monday, 30 June 2025
Kindle Audiobook: Grave Water Lake by A.M. Strong and Sonya Sargent
Oegh, meh. This one had all the ingredients for a chilling page-turner: a frozen lake, an isolated cabin, and a nameless woman shivering in the deep of night. The premise is strong, initially really enjoyed it. Could have gone in so many ways.
But it started to irritate me more than anything.
Synopsis:
A woman awakens beside a remote, frozen lake with no memory of who she is or how she got there.
Bleary‑eyed and frightened, she stumbles to a nearby house where a man named Gregg offers shelter. As a brutal winter storm traps them together, she adopts the name “Anna” after the initial on her bracelet . Strange noises, phantom footsteps, whispered voices and odd hints erode her sense of safety. Flashbacks to another woman, Adria, run parallel—hinting at hidden connections. As Anna pieces together her identity, she must decide if Gregg is protector or predator—and whether her regained memories are truth or threat.
(*Spolier* she's an author and confuses the book she is writing with real life because of a concussion.)
Friday, 27 June 2025
Kindle Audiobook: Follow Me: A Thriller, Elizabeth Rose Quinn
Follow Me: A Thriller by Elizabeth Rose Quinn
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (3.8/5)
The story started off a bit slow, and I wasn’t sure if it would hold my attention. It picked up as it went along, and I found myself keen to hear how it would all unfold. The plot was fairly standard and didn’t quite blow my hair back, but the writing was strong. It was well crafted and easy to listen to. I didn’t love it, but I enjoyed it overall.
Sunday, 22 June 2025
Libby: Counterfeit, Kristen Chen
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Counterfeit sets out to be a smart, stylish story about two women caught up in the world of fake designer handbags. What it becomes is a tale of manipulation, deceit, and getting away with it – and that did not sit well with me.
Ava, a quiet, seemingly respectable lawyer, is drawn back into the orbit of Winnie, an old college acquaintance with a commanding presence and a shady plan. Winnie steamrolls everyone in her path. Ava plays the victim, but she is just as complicit. The dynamic felt toxic. I don’t enjoy stories that glamourise crime or reward bad behaviour – and this one certainly did.
The writing was slick, and the world of counterfeit goods was interesting to explore. But I couldn’t get past the fact that there were no consequences. No redemption. Just two morally bankrupt characters dressed in designer lies.
Final thought: Stylishly written but ethically empty. If you are looking for something with substance and integrity, this one might leave you cold.
2.8/5
Kindle Audiobook: The Surfacing, Claire Ackroyd
Premise:
It’s been twelve years since teenager Peter Ferguson drowned in Loch Ness while Stephanie’s family were camping by the shore. Now, as her estranged sister Aurélie prepares to wed, Stephanie returns for the wedding—only to find old suspicions bubbling back up. As drink flows and long‑held secrets start to surface, the festive weekend becomes a tense battleground of guilt, silence, and the search for truth .
Tuesday, 17 June 2025
Libby Audiobook: Anxious For Nothing, Max Lucado
Sunday, 15 June 2025
Kindle Audiobook: Hold Strong, Robert Dugoni, along with Jeff Langholz and Chris Crabtree
Wow. Just wow.
Although Hold Strong is presented as a novel, knowing it is based on true events makes it all the more compelling. It is one of those rare reads that grips you from the first page and refuses to let go.
The resilience, courage, and raw humanity captured in this story are extraordinary. Robert Dugoni, along with Jeff Langholz and Chris Crabtree, masterfully weaves a tale that is both heart-pounding and deeply moving.
An unforgettable tribute to endurance and the indomitable human spirit.
5/5
Thursday, 12 June 2025
Kindle Audiobook: The Aftermath, Gail Schimmel
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
I thoroughly enjoy Gail Schimmel’s writing and always love supporting a talented South African author.
The narrators were good. Daniel was very grating. Julia too. (Which they were supposed to be!) I do feel a bit sorry for Julia, but she brought it on herself by getting involved with her best friend’s husband.
A sweet story with emotional depth.
4.5 stars from me.
Sunday, 8 June 2025
Libby Audiobook:Magda: My Journey, Magda Wierzycka
Magda: My Journey is a bold, brilliant and deeply human story of one of South Africa’s most formidable business leaders.
I listened to the audiobook and felt as though Magda was speaking directly to me, sharing not just her rise from political refugee to powerhouse CEO, but also the raw, real moments that shaped her. She does not shy away from her vulnerabilities, which makes her resilience all the more powerful.
From fighting corruption to challenging the status quo in the financial services sector, Magda is a force. What struck me most was her unwavering sense of purpose and her refusal to look away, even when doing so would have been easier.
This is more than a business memoir. It is a masterclass in grit, integrity and the courage to lead with both head and heart.
Highly recommended for anyone navigating leadership, ethical entrepreneurship, or just needing a reminder of the power of standing up and speaking out.
5/5
Friday, 6 June 2025
Libby Audiobook: No Return, No Surrender, Oscar Chalupsky
🌊 Book Review: No Retreat, No Surrender by Oscar Chalupsky with Graham Spence
★★★ ★☆
What an inspiring story. I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about Oscar Chalupsky, a man who refuses to let obstacles stand in his way. He meets challenges head-on and uses them as stepping stones to become even better.
I listened to the audiobook, and a great feature is the “Lessons Learnt” Q&A with Oscar at the end of each chapter. It adds depth and makes the experience feel personal and engaging.
What I did not enjoy as much were the sound effects. While they were clearly intended to set the scene, the waves and background music sometimes overpowered the narrator and became distracting.
Still, an excellent and motivational listen. Highly recommended for anyone needing a reminder of the power of perseverance.
Friday, 30 May 2025
Libby Audiobook: Across Borders, Ton Vosloo
Thursday, 29 May 2025
Kindle: The Day That Never Comes, Caimh McDonnell 3
Wednesday, 28 May 2025
Kindle Audiobook: The Patient's Secret, Loreth Anne White
★★★☆☆
I usually enjoy Loreth Anne White’s writing, she’s vert good at crafting gripping who-dunnits with unexpected twists and layered characters. The Patient’s Secret has all the ingredients: a mysterious death, an idyllic coastal setting with dark undercurrents, and a network of secrets waiting to unravel.
The story follows Lily Bradley, a respected therapist in a small town, whose carefully controlled life starts to fall apart when a woman is found dead at the base of a cliff. As the investigation unfolds, Lily’s connection to the victim and the secrets she’s buried start to come dangerously close to the surface.
It’s a well-written slow burn, but I didn’t enjoy this one as much as some of the author’s other titles. The pacing felt a bit off at times, and while the twists were there, they didn’t quite land with the same impact.
Still, if you like psychological suspense with a few red herrings and a moody atmosphere, it’s worth a listen.
Friday, 23 May 2025
Kindle Audiobook: The Birthday Party, Shalini Boland
The Birthday Party by Shalini Boland
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
I am a fan of Shalini Boland’s work—her thrillers usually deliver those lovely, juicy twists that keep me hooked. The Birthday Party had all the right ingredients, but this one stretched credibility a bit too far for me.
(Spoilers ahead!) Jo, the Mom of Elle that disappears' decision not to tell the police about Mateo felt inexplicable, and the DNA test twist just did not hold water. These plot holes made it harder to stay fully invested.
That said, I listened to the audiobook version, and the narrator did a great job—engaging, well-paced, and added to the overall atmosphere.
A twisty tale with potential, but not quite as satisfying as her other books.
Sunday, 18 May 2025
Wednesday, 14 May 2025
Kindle Audiobook: The Lying Man, Andy Maslen
Book Review: The Lying Man by Andy Maslen
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
I can’t believe I’m already on the fourth instalment — these books feel like catching up with old friends. The Lying Man is not a literary masterpiece, but it’s thoroughly enjoyable. Fast-paced, entertaining, and filled with familiar faces, it’s the kind of read that keeps you turning the pages without overthinking it. A solid 3-star read if you’re after something sharp, snappy and satisfying.
Saturday, 10 May 2025
Libby Audiobook: For My Country, Themba Maseko
What stood out most for me was the theme of integrity, and the reminder of why governance structures exist in the first place. State capture, as Maseko so clearly shows, takes root when people are driven by greed and disregard the rules.
He shares his journey with honesty and depth — from his early years as an activist, through the hopeful days of our new democracy, and into the harsh reality of state capture. I’m deeply grateful to him for having the courage to be the first whistleblower. It could not have been easy, especially being ostracised by former friends and social circles. His entire family felt the impact.
The book is sensitively written and genuinely moved me. It reminded me that there are still people who have fought — and continue to fight — for the soul of our beautiful country.
That said, I am still left wondering: how is it that the Guptas have not been brought to book?
Wednesday, 7 May 2025
Libby Audiobook: Like Sodium in Water, Hayden Eastwood
Book Review: Like Sodium in Water by Hayden Eastwood
Rating: ★★☆☆☆
Two stars—and that’s being generous.
The book begins with promise. Hayden Eastwood paints an evocative picture of his childhood in Zimbabwe during the 1980s and 90s. For anyone who grew up during that era, there’s a nostalgic familiarity in his anecdotes and pop culture references. It’s easy to feel drawn in and curious about where the story might lead.
Unfortunately, it veers off in a deeply uncomfortable direction. What begins as a memoir morphs into what feels like a public airing of intensely private family matters. The amount of personal, painful “dirty laundry” shared about his family is staggering—and quite honestly, unnecessary. It leaves the reader questioning the intent behind the book. There’s a faint glimmer of remorse, especially in relation to his father, but it’s fleeting and overshadowed by what often feels like bitterness rather than reflection.
One can appreciate that writing about trauma and truth can be cathartic. But storytelling—particularly memoir—comes with a responsibility: to handle shared histories with sensitivity and care. In this case, that balance is sorely lacking.
Proceed with caution if you value discretion, healing, and empathy in memoirs.
Saturday, 3 May 2025
Libby Audiobook: Deadly Pretender, Karen Kingsbury
Had no idea what to expect. Was 11hours long listen, was worried that I wouldn't get through it in the two week period. Binge listened to it with time to spare.
So good! David Miller is a bigamist. Tells wife one he is in the CIA. Rolled my eyes si many times during the book at how he duped everyone around him.
He ends up killing wife two!
Very good book.
5/5
Tuesday, 29 April 2025
Libby Audiobook: Rock, Paper, Scissors, Alice Feeney
This is the second Alice Feeney book I listened to, and really enjoyed it.
Again, binge listened to it. Love the twists.
We meet Adam an author and playright. He suffers from faceblindness and is married to Amelia. They + Bob, their lab, head up to Scotland for a weekend away that Amelia had won at work.
Very good.
4.5/5
Sunday, 27 April 2025
Libby Audiobook: On a Quiet Street, Seraphina Nova Glass
This was very good! Quite long, but I binge listened to this. Intrigue of friends. Paige has lost her son and believes everyone on the street is guilty, Cora is married to a serial philanderer and Georga/Nicola married to an absolute psycho.
Very good narrator.
I would like to read more of her work.
4.8/5
Saturday, 26 April 2025
Thursday, 24 April 2025
Libby Audiobook: Conversations with Friends, Sally Rooney
This was a weird one, didn't love it.
A bisexual 23 year old writer has an affair with a 32 year old actor.
Meh.
3/5
Monday, 14 April 2025
Sunday, 13 April 2025
Kindle Audiobook: Unspeakable Things, Jess Lourey
Saturday, 12 April 2025
Kindle: Into the Pines, J.C Fuller
Friday, 11 April 2025
Kindle Audiobook: The Maid's Diary, Loreth Anne White
Tuesday, 8 April 2025
Kindle Audiobook: The Swimmer, Loreth Anne White
Monday, 7 April 2025
Libby: Judaskus, Rudie van Rensburg
Friday, 4 April 2025
Libby Audiobook: The Light we Carry, Michelle Obama
Wonderfully inspiring. Go higher.
Michelle learnt how to knit during lockdown, helped her to relax.
Can hear the passion and pain of the new dispensation that has no respect or regard for tradition, others.
4.8/5
Tuesday, 25 March 2025
Libby Audiobook: Rising Strong as a Spiritual Practice, Dr Brené Brown
Choose discomfort over resentment
Saying no is a moment of discomfort, gives you back 6 months worth of resentment.
Boundaries help you to live with integrity
Extend true compassion when you are clear on your boundaries
Fear, grief, perfectionis gets in the way
For forgiveness to happen, something needs to die. Grief is the biggest barrier to forgiveness.
4.5/5
Sunday, 23 March 2025
Kindle: A Man With One of Those Faces, Caimh McDonnell
Saturday, 22 March 2025
Libby Audiobook: One Medicine, Dr Matt Morgan
Written and read by Welsh doctor, Matt Morgan.
Very interesting all the lessons animals teach us in treating human illness.
He encourages Dr to work with vets. Nurses with veterany nurses.
4/5
Friday, 21 March 2025
Kindle Audiobook: This one life, Amanda Prowse
Saturday, 15 March 2025
How to Survive a Tsunami, Rael Levitt
Enjoyed this book. Interesting to learn about Auction Alliance, their growth and downfal. Had a vague recollection of Wendy Appelbaum taking on some big organisation.
Good lesson on reputation and building relationships and what not to do.
Initially quite a bit of name dropping. But suppose that is part of the story.
4/5
Monday, 10 March 2025
Kindle Audiobook: You Killed Me First, John Marrs
Saturday, 8 March 2025
Libby Audiobook: The Alice Network, Kate Quinn
The narrator was so good with all the accents.
Interesting book about women spies in the first world war. It ctosses over between first world war and right after the second world war.
4/5
Friday, 7 March 2025
Saturday, 1 March 2025
Libby Audiobook: Understanding and overcoming depression, Joyce Meyer
We grow in the hard times not the good times .
Don't waste a day by being depressed/unhappy
Complain and remain.
Friday, 28 February 2025
Monday, 24 February 2025
Kindle Audiobook: Table for Five, Izzy Bromley
Abbie gets fired from a high powered marketing position. She befriends a motley crew that hang out at the coffee shop at a supermarket.
Ethel 84 year old ex ballerina, Bob, a homeless guy who lost everything when he was robbed, Dawn who l suspect is on the spectrum and Viraj who recently moved to Leeds but does not know anyone.
Reason for 3.8. I don't like present tense writing. And, I think it's highly unlikely that Ethel, at 84, after a stint in the hospital, would model clothes on point shoes.
Narrator was very good.
3.8/5