The Rebel Poetess

Book Review -So Lucky, Dawn O'Porter, Harper Collins, 2019 After the rightful success of Dawn O'Porter's novel 'The Cows', I couldn't wait to read her new novel, and was lucky enough to receive it as a gift for Christmas.   The tag line (Don't judge a woman by her cover) was very apt. So Lucky focuses on three central characters.   On the surface, Beth has what many women dream of.   An attentive husband, a beautiful baby, and a successful career, running her own company.   Ruby is ballsy, funny, and doesn't let anyone tell her who's boss.   Lauren has the perfect body, is about to marry her dream man, and has an Instagram feed to showcase every downward dog, flawless selfie, and a fun, easy relationship with her Mother. But scratch beneath the surface, and things are very different.   Beth's husband refuses to touch her, trying to shame her for her pregnancy weight gain, and shunning any expression of desire, telling her she...

The Gift, Cecilia Ahern, Harper, 2010. With Christmas approaching faster than I can keep track of, I thought I would review a book which is especially poignant to read during the festive season.   Cecilia Ahern is a writer who can do no wrong – there’s not been a book of hers so far I haven’t enjoyed. The Gift features Lou Suffern, a man with plenty of money, but not enough of the greatest commodity which cannot be bought – time.   Gabe is a homeless man who needs warmth and shelter.   When fate throws them into each other’s paths, neither can guess the impact the other will have on their lives and those around them. Lou has a busy job, and an even busier family life, and he cannot give attention to one without affecting the other.   Gabe on the other hand is something of a mystery to him, especially as he seems to be able to be in two places at once. Once Lou finds out Gabe’s secret he takes advantage of it, but is this really the solution? ...