Tash's Book of the Month
Welcome to Tash's Book of the Month, the fabulous fiesta where I dive into a new read each month and spill the juicy deets with my no-holds-barred review! But here’s the scoop: if a book and I didn’t click, I’m not shoving it in your face. I totally respect the blood, sweat, and tears that go into crafting (and actually finishing!) a book. Just because it wasn’t my cup of tea doesn’t mean it won’t dazzle someone else! So, buckle up for a sunny spot dedicated to celebrating literary treasures and must-read masterpieces!
MARCH
Then she was gone
by Lisa Jewell
Up until my holiday last year, I hadn’t picked up a Lisa Jewell novel in about 20 years! But during my stay, I found a book on the shelf in my hotel and completely fell in love with it! So, I thought it would be perfect to kick off the first Book Club with this fantastic author.
“Then She Was Gone” draws you into the gripping tale of Ellie Mack, a 15-year-old who disappears, but the heart of the story is told primarily through her Mum, Laurel. You also get glimpses from Ellie and a few other characters as the plot unfolds.
When Ellie goes missing, Laurel’s world absolutely shatters, and without a body, it feels like there can never be closure for her family. The way Laurel’s relationship with her other two children crumbles is so poignant—it’s almost expected since it seems Ellie was Laurel’s favourite. I found myself questioning that; wouldn’t a parent cling even tighter to their remaining children in such a tragedy? Maybe it’s just me!
As time goes on, Laurel starts to rebuild her life and meets a new man, Floyd, who has an adorable little daughter named Poppy. Laurel is irresistibly drawn to Poppy—not just because of her charm, but because she sees elements of her beloved Ellie in her.
I really want to avoid spoilers because this story is just packed with intrigue, even if it can be a bit frustrating at times! I can't say I particularly liked any of the characters, which might be what makes Lisa Jewell such a brilliant writer—she creates people that you can’t help but be fascinated by, even if you wouldn’t want to hang out with them. This reminds me of the TV drama “Love/Hate” (which is absolutely brilliant, by the way)! I couldn’t stand any of the characters, but the acting was just outstanding!
There is a part, around 60% in, that I thought ‘oh get on with it’ but I stuck in there and I’m glad that I did.
This book is really good; tense, with a very clever plot. Original and intriguing are my two final words for it; It gripped me from the start.
Did I see the twist in the tale, honestly yes, but I didn’t foresee the ending.
If you read decide to read it, let me know your thoughts.
Tash xx
Tash's BOTM: After dark
Any recommendation here are intended for an 'adult audience'. If you don't like spice (some are going to be so spicy you might even spontaneously combust) so reading will be at your own discretion and therefore, I won't be taking the blame is you are shocked/offended/or unprepared.
For those not of a nervous nature....enjoy....but only after dark!
MARCH
RK Lilley
Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
RK LILLEY is such an amazing author. She brings it all…angst, love, betrayal, passion and always a HEA 💜 This trilogy is, and will always be, in my top 10.
Meet Tristan and Danika. Call me sentimental but these two give me ALL the feels. Many times during reading, I felt that lump in my throat and had tears threatening to spill. I also called Tristan a plethora of bad names. But I loved them and their story.
If you’re in the mood for spice, drama and (frankly) a rollercoaster love story…you can find this one on Amazon. Be warned…it might raise your blood pressure!
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Tash's own book
Secrets and Lies
Just in case you are interested in reading my book, you can order via the link on Amazon. It’s available in paperback, kindle e-book and KU (if you know, you know!). I’m told it’s good… but you can always find out for yourself. Please do consider leaving a review as for newbie authors’ it’s a really great way of getting our books out there.
So what’s it about?
Lucie
I was happy being lost; it was, after all, on my terms. Meeting Jack was not part of my plan. Nor was falling in love with him. But when the unexpected happens, will he pull out all the stops to find me?
Jack
Months after living out of the country, I was tired. I wanted to rest. Who knew the girl in the coffee shop would have me chasing her down the street? But it turns out, Lucie turned out to be the love of my life and now I find myself travelling across Europe to save her.
Lucie is happily living her new life; hiding in anonymity from her family’s criminality and still grieving the death of her mother, when she meets Jack. Jack who is firmly on the right side of the law.
When Lucie receives a coded message in the middle of the night telling her to return home, she slips from Jack’s bed and his life.
But fate has other ideas for Lucie and Jack. A tearful reunion becomes a nightmare when Lucie is kidnapped. Secrets and lies are revealed and it’s a race against time for Jack to find her.
You think this is just another love story. You’re wrong. It’s a story of deliberately being lost but having no control when it happens again.
It’s a story of betrayal and paying the price for the mistakes made by those closest to you.
It’s a story of a race against time to find the one you love.