Lindsey's Literary Leanings

  Intriguing, Comprehensive, Elaborate Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Family Drama/Suspense Cutting It Fine by Sheena Billett From the time that Rose met Olly, she had taken on the role of protector. He had been the vulnerable one, insecure and sensitive. However, she’d had a hard time recognising when that role became obsolete, and that her husband was in fact, able to think and act for himself. Therefore, when she is presented with evidence, that within his quest of self-discovery, he has betrayed her, she is quick to attribute the blame elsewhere, desiring revenge without damaging her relationship. Is that ever possible? What could have been rectified with a single conversation, results in Rose unwittingly entangling herself in an elaborate plan orchestrated by someone who wanted much more than a trim and blow-dry. I initially read this through as a beta reader prior to publishing. My initial thoughts on the book were that the plot was overly complicated and that Rose’s actions w...

  Insightful, Captivating, Thought-Provoking Genre: Historical/Drama/Adventure/Action Kitty Taylor by Sarah Colliver Writing France held a very special place in Kitty’s heart with its culture, diverse landscapes and its exquisite wine and cuisine, not to mention its seductive language. She longed to re-locate there once again, but for now she had to be content with her job working for Manon. At least that gave her the chance to immerse herself in all things French and pretend she was actually there, for a significant quantity of each day. However, she was only too aware that the times they were living in would currently become an increasing challenge for her beloved country and people she craved to exist alongside, she wanted to play a significant part, all the time knowing that her family would rally against it. Her Grandmere is her only confidante, knowing that she can never impart any information that Kitty entrusts her with. Fate is about to intervene. Who can she trust and ...

  Comprehensive, Entertaining, Intriguing Genre: Murder/Mystery/Contemporary Fiction The Secret Lives Of The Doyenne Of Didsbrook Jocelyn Robertshaw, nee Strand, was the last in a long line of a well-established family to inhabit the quiet, secluded, sleepy village of Didsbrook. A renowned actress in her youth, treading the boards with various theatre companies, and best known for her portrayal of Shakespeare’s Juliet. She was a strong, independent woman who was passionate about horses and, later in life, became a successful novelist. She dedicated much of her time to the village she loved and the people who lived there, especially those who shared her passions in life, such as acting and writing. However, Jocelyn led a colourful and diverse life, experimenting in various passions, one of which ultimately led her to make an ill-conceived decision at seventeen, which had a lasting impact on many people over 48 years later. Just how many, and to what extent, is revealed in a way the ...

  Accomplished/Intuitive/Emotive Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Humour/Romance A Matter of Life and Beth by Scott Bissett - Author In the ensuing aftermath of Eric’s unceremonious departure, it had to be said that Beth was more put out by what remained, than what had buggered off. Left alone with an ever increasing pile of demands for payment that she hadn’t previously been privy to and no income, along with a vastly growing sense of inadequacy, not to mention, an over entitled fussy feline who, unlike his errant master, was making it abundantly clear that his lifestyle must continue in the manner to which he had become accustomed (thank you very much!), she is faced with rebuilding her life. Together with the support of her bestie Connie, and her son Jason, she surprises herself with her boldness, selecting some interesting life choices, leading to an unexpected liberation. This being the third and latest of Scott Bissett’s novels, I was aware that I liked his writing, but was in ...