Fallen by Karin Slaughter

On an ordinary spring day, Special Agent Faith Mitchell of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation returns home to a nightmare. Expecting to find her mother minding Faith's new baby daughter Emma, she is horrified to discover Emma locked in the shed, her mother's safe open, her gun missing and a trail of blood to the front door. Without waiting for back-up, Faith enters the house to a scene of carnage. It has been torn apart and a man lies dead in a pool of blood. She stumbles across two more intruders, and within minutes they too are shot dead. And when the Atlanta police force turns up, Faith has some difficult questions to answer. But she has some desperate questions of her own. What were the killers searching for? Ex-Atlanta police chief Evelyn Mitchell was once under investigation by Faith's partner Will Trent. Is her mother directly involved this time, and where is she now? With Faith suspended from duty, Will, together with the help of Dr Sara Linton, must piece together the fragments of a brutal and complicated case - and catch a deeply troubled and vicious murderer with only one thing on his mind. To keep on killing until the truth is finally revealed...

Karin Slaughter is one of those authors that I look forward to reading their latest novel as soon as it is releasaed - I don't wait for it to go to paperback, I have to have the hardback. And this has defintely been work the wait!

Faith Mitchell returns home from a course which has over run to find a trail of blood, her baby daughter locked in the shed and her mother missing. What follows is a lot of family history being dragged up, past behaviour explained and secrets being revealled.

This is the third book in the Georgia series (following Genesis and Unbroken) and combines the two sets of characters from Slaughter's books: Sara Linton and Will Trent.

As always with Slaughter's novels, there is a strong crime story which is intermingled with the personal lives of the main characters. This book is no different: Faith Mitchell is Will Trent's police partner and she has to be treated as a suspect. Will Trent is married, but in an unhappy marriage, Sara Linton is a widow and has feelings, which she won't admit, for Will Trent.

The book starts with a crime which has many repercussions to all involved. Life will never be the same for Faith as secrets are uncovered and life will change forever. The story is hard hitting and there are twists and turns throughout the whole book. I never guessed the final twist - the secret to be revealled - and I think that this is a big part of karin's books, the great storylines she creates.

I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of crime and thrillers. Although this book is the third in the Georgia Series and also features Sara Linton, who is the main character in many books, it is not necessary to read the others first, although fans will realise there are connections to previous books within Fallen.

I would like to thank the publishers for sending me this book to review.

Ouch! by David Roberts written by Alan MaDonald (Dirty Bertie)

Dirty Bertie - the boy with nose-pickingly disgusting habits - is back for another helping in A&E after an accident with a door, forgets his swimming trunks on a visit to Splash City, and proves that Know-All Nick doesn't actually know everything at the Inter-schools Quiz Competition.

The fourteenth book in the very popular Dirty Bertie series. As usual there are three stories within the book and when reading them I could imagine my son doing each one! Having an accident with a hammer and ending up in A&E, 'borrowing' a pair of swimming shorts and reading the most weirdest, revolting factual book and remembering the strangest facts from it.

These books are perfect for boys who are beginning to gain confidence in their reading. Full of humour and, at times, revolting behaviour, they will be loved by boys of all ages and I would recommend them to all. My son has enjoyed reading them aloud and to himself and I am sure they will be loved if shared at bedtime.

The books are part of a series and there is plenty to keep fans of Dirty Bertie reading for ages. The illustrations are excellent accompaniments for the stories and are interspersed throughout the book. The text is perfect for readers aged 7+ but is suitable for younger children who will love to listen to the stories.

I would recommend this as a perfect gift for boys of all ages.

Thank you to Stripes Publishing for sending me this book to review.

Sewing Basics by Sandra Bardwell

Few people learn to sew from their mothers anymore but many would love to master this rewarding and enjoyable skill. "Sewing Basics" is the ultimate bible for sewing at home, making sewing accessible for all. Covering fabrics, sewing machines, hand sewing, fitting, finishing, trouble-shooting and more, it will soon have you approaching a needle and thread with confidence. Both for beginners learning how to hem and for more experienced sewers who need help dealing with difficult fabrics, "Sewing Basics" is an invaluable reference to keep on the bookshelf for many years to come. Key points include: information on choosing and using fabric and equipment for both hand and machine sewing; detailed instructions on dozens of techniques; hints on achieving a professional finish to garments; trouble-shooting tips; more than 300 photos, including step-by-steps; and, a friendly and approachable tone to appeal to both novices and more experienced sewers

This book is a must for anyone who wants to try either hand or machine sewing for the first time, or as a useful reference book to be included in a crafters library for all those little things you are unsure of but want to try!

I was immediately drawn to this book when I saw it. I love cross stitching, I can reattach buttons, mend small tears in clothes and can stitch a straight line with a sewing machine but that is about it. I would love to be able to make a cushion cover from scratch or even finish that longline waistcoat that I started in my GCSE textiles class from a paper pattern but never quite finished it. With this book I am sure that I could give it a good go.

The book starts right at the beginning: getting organised- deciding on a workspace/area, organising it and keeping it tidy, how to store and organise your 'stash' and projects. It details all the tools of the trades - detailling needles, measuring tools and making equipment and explaining the benefits of each type. This tools of the trade section is very informative and explains the use of each item and the need for variations.
The book moves on to sewing machines - how to choose a machine and then the accessories needed for different projects: the size of needle used and the different feet avaliable and their uses. There is also a list of troubleshooting problems which explains the cause and also the solution in easy steps. Fabrics and interfacing are explained in the next section - how to care for them, how to establish the straight grain, any flaws in different fabrics and when and how to use interfacing.

The book then looks at patterns - how to understand them, what they contain, how to alter a commercial pattern, how to make a pattern from an existing garment and also measurement charts. The next section looks at cutting out, tacking and basting - how to prepare the paper pattern pieces, pinning or marking out, cutting the fabric, taching, basting and thread marking and hand stitching for tacking and basting.

There is a section on basic hand and machine stitches with photographs showing each stitch before looking at how to stitch seams (straight, curved, reinforced, angled, bias, stretched and enclosed), how to creat shape and fitting projects, how to do linings, facings and hems. The book then looks at design details - how to add pockets; collars. sleevescuffs, waistbands and waistfacings, how to add fastenings (zippers, buttons and buttonholes, press studs, hooks and eyes), how to add trims, beading, applique and smocking.

One of the final sections is on embroidery - materials needed and basic stitches. The final section is on alterations - how to take in or let out, lengthening and shortening and how to patch, replace seams, zippers etc and how to refresh worn items.

The book is full of help, tips and advice and each section is jam packed with clear photographs which accompany the easy to follow text. It is suitable for complete beginners but would also be a great book for the more accomplished seamstresses as a quick check for techniques. It covers all areas of sewing and could be used to make a complete item of clothing - taking you from opening the pattern pack to the finished item.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to try sewing for themselves - the book will soon pay for itself when you consider how much is charged to add a new zip or shorten trousers on the high street.

I received this book from the Amazon Vine program.

Laura's Handmade Life by Amanda Addison

Laura Lovegrove is leaving behind her seamless life in London. Architect husband Adi has been relocated to rural Norfolk, a far cry from ultra-urban Ealing. Though Laura knew village life would be different, she didn't foresee a pokey cottage, nosey neighbours, errant poodles, and even an ex turning up. Chris had been her big love at art college and seeing him again is utterly confusing. Is she really so different from the impulsive student who once trawled charity shops for vintage treasures? When a fire all but destroys Laura's collection of vintage clothes, she's heartbroken. And seriously lacking in outfits. But, salvaging what she can, Laura makes do and mends - sewing purses, bags, even dog leads (which should solve the poodle problem). Soon, she's inundated with orders. But Adi is becoming more and more distant; it's like there's something he's not telling her. Can Laura make a stitch in time and pull her family back together again?

This book was one of the many that I have been looking forward to this year and it has not disappointed. A great read but also informative with regard to embroidery/stitching techniques.

Laura Lovegrove has moved, along with her family, from London to a small village. Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of city life, Laura initially finds life difficult but soon begins to embrace the slower life and work on her crafts, alongside her part time job at a high school. Following an accidental fire at the family home which damages many of Laura's vintage clothes, she joins the village sewing club and begins to create a range of products for sale.

The story may be categorised as chick lit; with laura finding her life changing direction, problems at home etc however the story is more than just that. Laura completely changes her way of life and takes what life throws at her in two hands. I really enjoyed reading the book and there were times of joy and other times when I wanted to shout at Laura or her family in times of trouble. THere were also humerous times, especially the naming of the poodle, Prada, a little out of place in a country village

This book is right up my street. I am a great fan of cross stitch and other 'handicrafts'. The chapters each begin with a description of a stitch which I found very informative, however I would of prefered it if the picture was that of the stitch rather than line drawings of stitching paraphenalia. The story is well written and I enjoyed reading it. The village life was one which I would love to be a part of and sounds like a great place to live. The whole idea of using vintage clothes or clothes which have specific memories are a great idea and one which I would love to try, however I think I would have worries about ruining them with my attempts at sewing.

I did enjoy the book, however I found that the story occasionally wandered off line a little, before pulling back to the main story again. The story is a great one of where things are against you, just follow your heart and dig deep! The story is one which reflects the modern day, with costs going up and everyone trying to make do or develop ways of making a bit of money from existing resources.

The book also contains two patterns from Amanda Addison; Laura's Spring Chicks and Laura's Norfolk Lavendar Bags, both of which are contained in the story. I will definitely be trying out the chicks.

I think this book would be prefered by readers who have a crafty background, it is not one of great chick lit, with romance and daily life, but one where someone uses their craft to provide a better oppurtunity in life.

Thank you to the publishers, Sphere, for sending me this book to review.

Prepped: gorgeous food without the slog - a multitasking masterpiece for time-short foodiesy Vanessa Kimbell

Spontaneous parties, unstructured suppers, impromptu invitations, unexpected guests at any time of the day - welcome to Prepped!, a new, time-saving, inspirational and delicious way of cooking. Vanessa Kimbell takes a selection of fabulous flavours and creates a basic 'wardrobe' of go-anywhere dishes. By linking your recipes you can produce delicious food in less time, and by layering a selection of signature flavours you can transform your everyday cooking into something special. Prepped! Stunning food that makes an enviable statement about your lifestyle.

A great idea for a book serious cooks will love to have in their kitchen. As described in the introduction 'each chapter focuses on a specific flavour, featuring straightforward recipes that use simple ingredients - but with a difference. On each page you'll find sophisticated linking and layering techniques that let you alter the glavours and moods of your dishes at the drop of a hat.'

There are eleven chapters, which each focus on a separate ingredient: elderflower; rhubarb; lavender; lemon; vanilla; tomato; plum; caraway; chocolate; cardamon; and orange and clove. Ingredients which can be found in most kitchen store cupboards.

The idea and layout of this book is excellent - each chapter begins with an introduction to the ingredient and the rest of the chapter is full to the brim with recipes that include that ingredient. The recipes are also cross referenced to other recipes within the book that use that recipe or could be used if the recipe is adapted slightly, making following the recipes/book easier, no need to continually search through the book or index. For example, the rhubarb jam is cross referenced to the rhubarb and vanilla cupcakes, rhubarb pavlova, rhubarb pie, tipover trifle and victoria sponge cake.

The recipes are all began with a brief introduction to the recipe - giving hints and tips for serving instructions, ideas for accompanienments or tips for easy cooking. There are also number of servings; prep time; cooking time and on some recipes if it is suitable for freezing. The recipes are written in simple english and detailled instructions. There are countless photographs included within this book , all to a very high quality and show the food extremely well

The recipes are for many levels of cook - some recipes are perfect for a family meal, meal for children whereas others would be great for dinner parties. There are recipes for starters, main courses, accompaniements, desserts and a few drinks included too.

A great book to give as a gift or to add to a cooks library.

Thank you to Michael from The School Run Forum for sending me the book to review.

Lulu and Bob by Lerryn Korda

Lulu lives in a lovely house with her mummy, her daddy and Percy the cat. Her life is full of Terribly Important rules and Lulu knows that she must try and be on her Very Best Behaviour at all times. Then one day a very unusual person called Bob appears...filling Lulu's world with adventure, excitement, and a lot of mischief.

A great book for children everywhere who like to have fun, play games but don't like tidying up afterwards! Is it really them that make all the mess, or is there someone else who does that??

The book is very well presented, each page has limited text, in a clear bold print with beautiful pictures. The pictures have a range of styles for different components of the big picture - some appear to be computer generated, while others have a hand drawn style, others are only outlined. Together they have a great effect. The pictures will capture a young child's imagination.

The story is well written and will be loved by children of all ages. A lovely gift to give and a lovely story to share at story or bedtime.

Thank you to Scholastic for sending me the book to review.

Weber's Foolproof Favourites (70 simple and delicious bbq recipes)

Weber's Foolproof Favourites is an invaluable collection of beloved barbecue recipes. From Spinach Stuffed Beef Tenderloin with Horseradish Sauce to Chicken Under Bricks, there's something for everyone. With chapters covering starters, red meat, pork, poultry, seafood, vegetables and sides and even dessert, this book is sure to become a grill time favourite.

A brightly coloured book filled with 70 delicious sounding, tempting recipes to try on a barbecue.

The book begins with a section entitled foolproof FAQs for anyone who wants to try out these recipes in the traditional way. There is also a great introduction about how the Weber company in USA developed the traditional barbecue.


The 70 recipes are split into seven sections within the book: starters; red meat; pork; poultry; seafood; vegetables and sides; and desserts. Each recipe is accompanied by a (usually) full page, high colour photograph which certainly makes your mouth water!


Each recipe has a comprehensive ingredient list, along with an special equipment you may need for the recipe. There are also four circles at the start of each recipe which clearly identifies: preparation time; cooking time on the bbq; servings per recipe; and skill required.


The recipes are concisely, but clearly written in well thought out, easy steps and look very easy to follow. The photographs are of a very high quality and the food looks mouthwateringly delicious. Many of the recipes look like they are adaptable to be cooked in a kitchen using a cooker too.


My one thought after reading the recipes is that recipes call for 'preparing the grill for grilling over a low/medium/high heat and although temperatures are given, no information or guidance is given to how to regulate this heat during cooking time included in the book- I will admit, however I am a bbq novice and never used a bbq to cook a meal, more competent bbqers may find this easy.


My only negative thoughts about this book are that there are not many suggestions for vegetarian meals - the vegetable dishes are accompanienments to the other recipes rather than main meals. Also when looking through recipe books I enjoy reading through the one or two sentence descriptions of the dish, this book does not contain these and I was unsure of some of the dishes from their titles.

For the serious BBQer I would recommend this as an ideal gift but for novices, a little bit more guidance may be required.

Thank you to Octopus Publishing for sending me this book to review