chroniclesofabookmum's reviews
680 reviews

“The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated”

Vet, Jonathan Cranston, is no ordinary vet. As well as his day to day job role in your average English veterinary practice treating household pets and farm animals; Jonathan also has extensive experience of working with amazing species around the world which includes Snow Leopards and Giant Pandas. This book draws on Jonathan’s experiences in his career some of which are hilarious and others that are heart wrenching.

I was lucky enough to be sent a copy of this book from Readers First. This is not my normal type of book however I love animals and the idea of following a vet on his journey really appealed to me. I loved this book so much, I found that it was so interesting and such a refreshing read. Jonathan dedicated this book to his dog Max, HIS DOG, as soon as I read this I instantly knew that I was going to enjoy my reading experience! This book explored so many themes, some of which I laughed and some of which I cried. From the sadness and realisation of the seriousness of poaching Rhino horns in South Africa and other countries in the world to a Ferret in the veterinary practice who was high from its owners stash of cannabis. The book also has various intervals whereby photographs are inserted to show different experiences that Jonathan has had in his career. I found these fascinating and felt that with these included I was able to engage further into the story and his life. I did find that in some parts the book dragged with the scientific terms and procedures which I did not understand, however I’m not a vet so surely it wasn’t meant to appeal to me anyway. Being a vet has never been a desire for me in my life so far, however after reading this book at the age of 26 I am sat wondering whether a change in career is possible! Honestly, I think everybody should read this book, it was truly fantastic and one that I highly recommend.

Set in Copenhagen, this story follows young detective Naia Thulin, who is assigned a murder case whereby the killer leaves behind a doll made of Chesnuts. Soon afterwards, a second woman is found murdered along with a chestnut doll next to her body. Who is the killer? Will Thulin solve this case before somebody else loses their life?

I requested this book to read from Netgalley as the synopsis drew my attention and I really thought I would love it. Unfortunately, that was not the case! Upon first beginning the book I realised it was a translation however it was not translated brilliantly and I could notice that the first language this book was written in was not English. The poor translation put me off from the beginning. I also found that there was so much going on and so many characters and plots that I struggled to keep up and understand which character and plot the author was discussing. I also found that the plots would switch very suddenly in the middle of a chapter, with very little distinction which made it difficult to keep up with. It did not captivate me and took me a while to read as it felt more of a chore to pick it up. I feel like this is such a shame because the plot really does appeal to me and I feel like it could have been done so much better.

“You tread lightly through life, but you leave deep footprints that are hard for other people to fill”

One Day in December, Laurie sets eyes upon a man who she instantly identifies as the one. However, before either of them pluck up the courage to approach each other the bus drives off. This book follows Laurie’s journey through finding the mysterious man she saw at the bus stop, including everything she encounters along the way.

I was really disappointed by this book for various different reasons. I found from the beginning that it was all a bit cliche and predictable therefore it did not capture me in a way which made me excited to pick the book up. I really struggled to relate to the characters, I just didn’t like any of them, especially Jack I honestly found myself getting angry each time he was mentioned! I thought this would be a christmassy read based on the title however it wasn’t remotely christmas related. Im so disappointed to write a negative review as I was really looking forward to reading this based on hearing so many good things about it. Maybe it just wasn’t for me. I did however like the Birmingham references (thats where I am from) and also the mentions of the films Love Actually and Bridget Jones. Apart from that I can honestly say I wouldn't pick this book up again.

One year ago, Anna’s mother chose to end her life following the suicide of her husband just months earlier. Anna is now trying to live her life with a new born baby and a man she hardly knows whilst trying to come to terms with the loss of her parents. However, things aren’t all what they seem. Let Me Lie, follows Anna’s journey through finding out the truth behind her parents deaths whilst deciphering who she can trust and who she cannot.

I was lucky enough to be given a copy of this book through Netgalley. When I first looked it up on Goodreads I was apprehensive to start this book as it didn’t have the best reviews. However I actually really enjoyed this book. I really connected with the writing style and with the characters, especially Anna and Murray. I felt like the author managed to send me down the wrong track several times. I was convinced I knew how it would end but I was wrong! There were so many twists and turns throughout, and even to the very end of the book I found that I was surprised! I did find that some parts of the book dragged and felt unnecessary but all in all it was a thoroughly enjoyable read!

“Do you know why he wears red? I do. It hides the blood stains better .. Even though he usually cleans the blood up.”

Told by Simon the Elf, Santa the Vampire shows the evil side to the big red man we all know and love. From murdering innocent people for their blood to enslaving his staff, this book shows the dark side of Christmas. And if you think Mrs Clause and Rudolph are innocent, you can think again.

What have I just read?!?! I requested a copy of this book through Netgalley as the synopsis had me laughing and intrigued by how the author would progress with this story line. I must admit it did make me laugh, but it was such a ridiculous story! There are trigger warnings at the start of this book which readers should definitely be aware of before deciding to continue with this book as it does dive into some very controversial and difficult topics. I’m lost for words, this book is like no other book I have read, and if I’m honest, I hope I don’t read another like it.

“It's like everyone tells a story about themselves inside their own head. Always. All the time. That story makes you what you are. We build ourselves out of that story.”

Name of the Wind is told in the perspective of Kvothe; a young man who began with nothing progressing to be the most powerful wizard the world has seen. The story follows Kvothe through the hardest times he has experienced, watching him achieve his dreams to being a legend at his university to a fugitive later in life.

I was really looking forward to reading this book, as many people I receive my book recommendations from absolutely loved it! Unfortunately, this book just wasn’t for me. It was a really slow start and I found myself wanting to put the book down through sheer boredom. Eventually, around 200 pages in the book did pick up when exploring university life however just when I thought the story was progressing I was knocked back with another slow burning plot. I just really didn’t get on with this book. I didn’t feel like I could relate to the world, the magic nor the characters. In fact, I found myself really disliking most of them. I’m so sad that I didn’t enjoy this and I definitely feel like I’m in the minority with this review. I won’t be picking up the next book I don’t think.

It’s Clarisse’s hen weekend, an opportunity to let her hair down with her closest friends. However from the moment the party arrive at a secluded house in Jersey something isn’t quite right. This is going to be a hen do like no other, the hens have their own secrets that they won’t be able to keep forever.

I was granted access to this book through Netgalley. My own hen party is only a couple of months away so this book really appealed to me. Unfortunately I found the synopsis to be the best part of the book and really struggled to keep myself interested within the storyline. I just couldn’t connect with any of the characters, that said however, I think that was probably an intentional factor from the author. I will however say that the ending did take me by surprise and the ending alone gained this book an extra star. If you’re looking for a quick paced, easy read then this book may be for you. As I said the ending is definitely worth the wait in my opinion.

3.5 stars

“Just because someone has power over you doesn’t mean they’re going to use it to hurt you. People who believe that tend to either be: People who have been victims of that sort of behaviour, or people who, if given power, will use it to hurt you.”

Introducing Carl, a giant 10ft tall sculpture wearing a suit of samurai amor. Several Carls suddenly appeared around the world. April May discovered her local Carl on her way home from work at 3am, she immediately alerts her best friend Andy who films Youtube videos and they upload one to his channel. Unbeknown to both, the video is an international sensation over night, giving them both a new found fame and a new life. However Carl isn’t just a giant sculpture. Follow April May in her quest to deal with her new found fame whilst also trying to discover what the Carl’s are and what they want from the human race.

I was lucky enough to be given a copy of this book from Netgalley and Orion Publishing Group. I have been toying with my review throughout reading this book. At some points it was a solid 5 stars however some parts were a bit slow and seemed pointless which is why the rating was lowered. I enjoyed the writing style and the idea was so unique. It did make me laugh throughout and I really did enjoy reading it. I did however really struggle to get on with the characters, especially April May. Were we not meant to like her? Because she really wasn’t a loveable character that I could personally relate to. I do feel this also made me bring down the rating slightly. On the whole, I did enjoy reading this book and for a debut novel it was thoroughly enjoyable. I would recommend that you read this book. I will be picking up his next one.

3.5 stars

Briella Blake, isn’t your average 10 year old child. This becomes even more apparent when she is moved to attend Parkhaven, a private school for extremely gifted children. Briella’s mother Marian is struggling to cope with the ever changing behaviour of her daughter, which is made worse by Briella’s unlikely friendship with a raven she has named Onyx. With Marian at breaking point, and Briella’s behaviour putting others in danger; what could possibly be breaking point for this family?

I was lucky enough to be given a copy of this book by Netgalley and Flame Tree Press. This book pleasantly surprised me. Obviously, I liked the look of it, otherwise I would not have requested it but I definitely enjoyed it more than I thought. I did enjoy the authors writing style and I found that the book was very easy to read and follow. I did feel at times that some parts were unnecessary and I did find myself skim reading through certain parts. Also, the characters refer to Briella as “the kid”, I understand why the author has done this but I couldn’t stop myself from noticing the constant reference and it did become a bit tedious. I would recommend this book to anybody that is thinking of reading it and I would definitely pick up another book by Megan Hart.

4.5 stars

“Its better to face madness with a plan than to sit still and let it take you in pieces”

There is something dangerous, loose in society. So dangerous that it must not be seen, one look and the individual is led to deadly violence. What is it? Where did it come from? 5 years after the beginning of its existence there are very few survivors remaining, Malorie and her two young children are one of those few. Malorie decides to take action, and flea the abandoned house that has been her safety, travelling downriver with only a rowboat and her blindfold. A very risky journey. Will she come into contact with the monster? Will she get herself and her children to safety?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I didn’t expect to at all. When I picked it up there was so much hype surrounding it and I had convinced myself that it probably wouldn’t live up to the hype, however it most certainly did. I finished this book a couple of days ago but I didn’t feel ready to sit and write this review as I have been toying with what rating to give to it. It was a real page turner; so action packed that I really had a hard time putting it down. So much so that I had finished it within 24 hours. I found myself feeling genuinely invested within the story to the point where I was frightened of the monster myself and felt the worry that the characters were feeling. It really was not difficult to immerse myself within the plot, which by the way, I thought was so imaginative and original. I did however finish the book wanting a bit more closure, and immediately after finishing I did feel slightly disappointed. However, now I think about it more, I don’t actually think that anything more could have been done without ruining the brilliant story that had been built over the previous stories. Do I want to know what happened next? Or am I content with what information the author has given me. After much thought, I think I am content with the information I have been given. This is the first Josh Malerman book I have ever read and it certainly will not be the last. Anybody who is thinking of reading it, think no further, this is a must read. I would definitely recommend.